1939 Map of Sunburst

About this map

Canada United States border crossings and early oil field camps define this northern Montana landscape just before the outbreak of World War II. The Great Northern railroad line serves as a central artery, connecting the border town of Sweetgrass to the industrial centers of Sunburst and Kevin. The map reveals a specialized petroleum-based economy through several named company settlements, including Ohio Camp, Texas Pacific Camp, and California Camp, scattered across the high plains. Between these industrial nodes, the presence of the Willshaw Sch and Superior Sch indicates the sparse but established rural community. Large Lake Bed depressions and landmarks like Buckley and the Willshaw Flats characterize the terrain, while the international boundary with Alberta marks the northern limit of the survey.