1930 Map of Stillwell Creek

About this map

The Sierra del Carmen dominates this tactical survey, marking a sharp topographic boundary in the Big Bend region of West Texas. Published under the direction of the Corps of Engineers, U. S. Army in 1930, the map illustrates the stark landscape where the United States meets Mexico along the sinuous path of the Rio Grande. In an era when remote border industry was still active, the Roberts (Wax Plant) stands out as a unique commercial landmark near the river, likely processing candelilla wax from native desert plants. The sparse human presence is otherwise limited to cattle operations like Walkers Ranch and essential water sources such as Valverde Tank. These features, along with the deep relief of Maravillas Canyon and Horse Canyon, reflect a landscape defined by aridity and natural barriers where the Coahuila border follows the river's bends.