The United States Topographical Engineers in the High Plains of Texas

This region and much of western America was mapped under adversity, as territory held by hostile Indians. With the dual aims of compiling scientific data and opening the way for settlers, U.S. Army topographers covered ground earlier traversed by conquistadors and mountain men. Earlier travelers mentioned their experiences. The topographers mapped the terrain. The United States Army Topographical Corps from 1838 to 1863 consisted of 36 officers. Barometer, compass, sextant, and pencil were their instruments for handling data on climate, geographical features, soil, feasible routes for wagons or railroads, and sites for towns and industrial developments. Three topographical parties investigated the land that is now Potter County: Lt. James W. Abert invaded this Indian region in 1845 to survey environs of the Canadian and other rivers; Lt. James H. Simpson in 1849 reconnoitered a proposed railroad route from Fort Smith to Santa Fe; Lt. Amiel W. Whipple in 1853 mapped another railroad route from the Mississippi to the Pacific. The United States owes great honor to these and other topographers. (1973)

The United States Topographical Engineers in the High Plains of Texas is a historical marker in Amarillo, Potter County, dedicated in 1973. It is one of 49 historical markers documented in Potter County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 73 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 35.4780, -101.8832 near Amarillo. The nearest cataloged historic site is The Canadian River (historical marker), about under a tenth of a mile away. Others within a short drive include Great Spanish Road_First Ranch in Potter County_First Store in Potter County, First Cemetery in Potter County, and LX Ranch Cemetery.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5375005609. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.