1978 Map of Sulphur Butte

About this map

Sulphur Butte anchors this landscape in Butte County, where the high plains are carved by a complex network of seasonal drainage ways. Based on 1972 aerial photography, the map reveals a remote ranching environment defined by intermittent water sources such as Frog Creek and Lonetree Creek. The confluence of North Double R Creek and South Double R Creek in the southeastern portion of the quadrangle illustrates the intricate hydrography of this semi-arid region. Small human interventions, including a lone Reservoir and established fence lines, speak to the grazing economy of the late twentieth century. This survey documents the terrain just before the widespread adoption of digital mapping, capturing the literal layout of the land through the courses of Sulphur Creek and Willow Creek.