1953 Map of Abiquiu

About this map

Rio Chama dictates the movement and agriculture of this northern New Mexico landscape, where centuries-old land divisions define the territory. The map illustrates a complex overlay of Spanish and Mexican land grants, including the Juan Jose Lobato Grant, Town of Abiquiu Grant, and Plaza Blanca Grant. These historic boundaries intersect with the modern management of the Carson National Forest. Settlement is concentrated along the river valley in places like Abiquiu, Rancho de Abiquiu, and El Curuco, where an intricate system of irrigation canals, such as the Rancho Abiquiu Ditch and the Abeyta Trujillo Ditch, sustain the valley floor.