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1894 Map of Three Forks

Name: 1894 Topographic Map of Three Forks
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1894
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1894

About this map

The confluence of the Jefferson River, Madison, and Gallatin rivers creates a complex network of waterways and early settlements in the 1880s. This survey, conducted under the direction of J. W. Powell, illustrates the vital transport corridor where the Northern Pacific Railroad follows the northern arc of the rivers through Logan and Manhattan. The landscape transitions from the agricultural Jefferson Valley to the dramatic peaks of the Gallatin and Madison ranges, including landmarks like Gallatin Peak and The Sphinx.

Mining and thermal features influenced early development, as seen at Matthews Hot Springs and the mining-adjacent settlements of Sterling, Revenue, and Pony. The inclusion of Virginia City in the southwest corner marks its importance near the territorial boundary. This edition also captures early infrastructure such as Barons Bridge and Shedds Bridge, which facilitated movement across the river systems before more modern crossings were established.