1954 Map of Wasta

About this map

The Cheyenne River carves a deep valley through this portion of Pennington County, defining the landscape where the Chicago and North Western railroad traverses the river bend. The small settlement of Wasta serves as a central hub for the surrounding ranching and transport activities, supported by the nearby Wasta Landing Field. The terrain is deeply dissected by numerous drainage systems, including Hawk Canyon to the west and Cedar Canyon to the northeast, illustrating the erosive power of the plains waterways. Mapping by the Geological Survey during the mid-1950s reveals a network of gravel pits and small water bodies like Shyne Lake, reflecting the local reliance on resource extraction and water management. To the south, the confluence of Boxelder Creek and several draws like Pats Draw into the river valley highlights the complex hydrology of the western South Dakota badlands margin.