1954 Map of Wasta SE

About this map

Cedar Butte rises above the surrounding plateau in this 1954 topographic record of South Dakota's western plains, part of the Missouri River Basin development program. The landscape is characterized by the expansive Lake Flat and the deep incisions of Cedar Canyon, illustrating the erosional patterns of the local drainage systems. The survey captures a network of rural education, identifying Cedar Butte Sch and Pennington Square Sch, which served the scattered ranching community. The Chicago and North Western railroad provides the primary industrial spine through the territory, running alongside Bull Creek as it navigates the terrain. Notable for its depiction of vital water infrastructure in a semi-arid region, the map marks several Windmill locations essential for cattle ranching during the mid-20th century.