1970 Map of Steel Star Draw

About this map

The Oppenheimer ranchlands and surrounding draws of Val Verde County define this West Texas landscape as it appeared in the late 1960s. The topography is dominated by an intricate network of seasonal drainage channels, most notably Steel Star Draw, Samson Draw, and Duncan Draw, which carve through the high plateau towards the Devils River. This map provides a detailed view of the remote ranching infrastructure of the era, marking the locations of the Oberkampf Ranch, Nettleford Ranch, and Carson Ranch. These working landscapes were supported by several private landing strips and a Radio Tower, reflecting the logistical realities of managing large-scale livestock operations in such isolated territory. Small-scale industrial activity is also present, indicated by a Gravel Pit, a Gas Well, and scattered drill holes, suggesting mineral exploration alongside traditional grazing.