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1954 Map of Allison

Name: 1954 Topographic Map of Allison
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1955
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1955

About this map

The Southern Ute Indian Reservation dominates the landscape of this 1954 survey, showcasing a complex network of mid-century irrigation and rail transport. The Denver and Rio Grande Western railroad tracks cut through the southern portion of the quadrangle, serving the small settlements of Allison and Arboles. This era highlights the vital role of water management in the high desert, evidenced by the Pine River Canal, North Lateral, and numerous flumes and ditches that diverted water from the Piedra River.

Genealogists will find interest in the scattered rural locations like Graves and the noted Cem south of the railroad line. The terrain rises sharply to the north toward Piedra Peak and Haystack Mountain, while the southern boundary follows the border between Colorado and New Mexico. This map documents a functional agricultural and transit corridor just before significant regional changes impacted these river-valley communities.