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1951 Map of Wheatland

Name: 1951 Topographic Map of Wheatland
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1952
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1952

About this map

The Colorado and Southern (Burlington Route) anchors the development of this Platte County landscape, running parallel to the north-south alignment of U.S. 87. Centered on the growing hub of Wheatland, the map reveals a sophisticated irrigation network vital to high-plains agriculture, featuring the Laramie River No 1 Ditch, City Ditch, and Highline Canal. Small rail-side points like Whiting and Gibson contrast with the larger ranching operations, such as Phifer Ranch and Bard Ranch, that define the outskirts of the settlement.

The topography transitions from the winding path of the Laramie River in the north toward the distinct geological formation of Antelope Gap in the southeast. Cultural landmarks such as the Wheatland Cem, Moody Community Club, and the Wheatland Municipal Airport reflect the established community life of the early 1950s. Hydrological features like Jones Lake and Festo Lake provide rare open water in a region defined by its managed water resources and gravel excavations.