1950 Map of Smyrna

About this map

Smyrna sits at the heart of this mid-century landscape, a small settlement positioned along the Chicago Milwaukee St Paul and Pacific railroad. The geography is defined by dramatic topographical shifts, from the elevated Frenchman Hills in the north down the Royal Slope to the Crab Creek valley. To the south, the Saddle Mountains rise sharply, anchored by Wahatis Pk. The mapping reveals a specialized ranching economy, identifying several family-held operations such as Schrum Ranch, Chadbourne Ranch, Rasor Ranch, and Olsen Ranch. Unique landmarks like the Natural Corral and Lambing Camp suggest a history tied to livestock movement through the coulees and across the Smyrna Bench. The presence of a Gaging Sta on Crab Creek and various wells, including Rasor Spring, highlights the critical importance of water management in this arid stretch of Grant County.