How to read a Texas abstract / GLO description
Texas uses the GLO survey grid, not PLSS. Here's how to read both the abstract-name and Panhandle block/section styles.
Two styles
Abstract style: 'A-123, John Smith Survey, Harris County': abstract number, original survey, county. Panhandle style: 'Sec 18, Blk M-23, Lubbock County': section, block, county. Never apply township-and-range logic to Texas.
Last reviewed June 2026. General information about survey systems — not legal, title, or survey advice.
Sources: Texas General Land Office — Surveying, Texas GLO — Archives & Heritage.