USGS
Triangulation Station
"BIRDWOOD"1896
Jerry Penry
October 4, 2007
This triangulation monument is located northwest of North Platte, Nebraska, in the Sandhills region. Other than the erosion of the blowing sand exposing more of the monument, it has remained unchanged for over 100 years. At the time of its placement in 1896, the brass caps being used by USGS were in their first year. Caps were marked "B.M." for bench mark since they had not yet developed a separate cap for triangulation stations. This mark was discovered by Nebraska surveyor Gene Thomsen.
Originally, the top of this marker would have been set close to the ground.
(Gene Thomsen photo)
Cattle rubbing on the cap have kept it polished for many years.
(Gene Thomsen photo)
