Land surveying has always played a foundational role in the growth of West Texas. From early boundary lines that defined ranchland to modern infrastructure projects that support growing communities, surveying has shaped how the region develops. One firm that has been deeply connected to that history is JACOB | MARTIN.
Built on Engineering and Surveying Foundations
Founded in 1948, JACOB | MARTIN began as a civil engineering and surveying firm serving communities across Texas. In the post–World War II era, West Texas was expanding — new roads, utilities, schools, and neighborhoods were needed. Accurate surveying became essential to that growth.
From the beginning, the firm combined engineering expertise with professional land surveying services. That combination allowed projects to move from concept to construction with precision and efficiency.
Surveying in the Early Years
In the mid-20th century, surveying relied heavily on:
- Steel Tapes and Chains
- Optical Theodolites
- Hand Calculations
- Paper Plats and Drafting Tables
Field crews worked long days in the Texas heat establishing property corners, mapping rural tracts, and supporting infrastructure improvements. Much of the early work focused on:
- Boundary Surveys for Ranch and Agricultural Land
- Subdivision Development
- Municipal Infrastructure Layout
- Utility Routing
Surveying at that time required both technical skill and practical problem-solving, especially in the vast landscapes of West Texas.
Growth Alongside West Texas Communities
As Abilene and surrounding communities grew, so did the complexity of surveying work. Projects expanded beyond simple boundary lines to include:
- Commercial Developments
- Municipal Roadway Projects
- Water and Wastewater Systems
- School Campuses and Public Facilities
Surveyors became integral members of project teams, working closely with engineers, architects, and city officials to ensure designs were built accurately and within legal boundaries.
Technology Evolution
Like the surveying profession nationwide, JACOB | MARTIN adapted as technology advanced:
- Transition from Manual Drafting to CAD Systems
- Introduction of Total Stations
- GPS and GNSS Surveying
- Digital Data Collection and Processing
- Lidar Scanning and Point Cloud Extraction
These tools increased efficiency and precision while allowing surveyors to handle larger, more complex projects.
Modern surveying now integrates satellite positioning, digital terrain modeling, and advanced mapping software — but the core principles remain the same: accuracy, integrity, and protection of property rights.
Continuing a Legacy of Precision
Today, surveying at JACOB | MARTIN continues to support:
- Land Development
- Infrastructure Expansion
- Municipal Improvements
- Construction Staking
- Boundary and Topographic Surveys
The firm’s long-standing presence in Abilene reflects not just technical capability, but a sustained commitment to serving local communities.
Surveying’s Lasting Impact
Surveying is often unseen, but it is foundational. Every road, building, utility line, and subdivision begins with accurate measurements and defined boundaries.
From early ranch divisions to modern urban development, surveying at JACOB | MARTIN has contributed to shaping the physical landscape of Abilene and West Texas for decades.