1963 Map of Ajo

About this map

The massive New Cornelia Mine and its extensive infrastructure dominate the center of this Pima County landscape, reflecting the heavy industrial footprint of mid-century copper extraction. The community of Ajo is detailed alongside its satellite neighborhoods of Gibson and Mexican Town, served by the Tucson Cornelia and Gila Bend railroad and the Tucson Cornelia and Gila Bend Road. Large engineering features like the North Dam Tailings Pond and East Dam Tailings Pond flank the open pit, while the town's social life is marked by the Ajo Country Club and a Boy Scout Campground. Beyond the industrial core, the map reveals a desert landscape of cattle tanks and remote outposts, including The Adobe and the John the Baptist (Site) in the mountains to the south. To the west, the Luke Air Force Range and Cabeza Prieta Game Range establish sprawling administrative boundaries across the arid terrain.