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1957 Map of Wind Cave

Name: 1957 Topographic Map of Wind Cave
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1958
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1958

About this map

Wind Cave National Park dominates this mid-century survey, showcasing the complex topography of the Black Hills shortly after aerial surveys were conducted in 1954. The map provides a detailed view of the surface features above the subterranean cave system, including the Wind Cave entrance and Park Headquarters. The landscape is defined by dramatic limestone formations and ridges, with Rankin Ridge and Highland Ridge providing significant elevation.

Agricultural and educational history is visible through the labeling of several established cattle operations such as Sanson Ranch and 7-11 Ranch, alongside the Martin Valley Sch (Abandoned). The presence of these named ranching sites and the schoolhouse illustrates the sparse but persistent human settlement patterns in Custer County. Transport features like the unique Pigtail Bridge and the drainages of Beaver Creek and Cold Spring Creek further define the regional geography.