1954 Map of Aztec

About this map

Santa Clara Pueblo and the historic settlement of Los Ojos (Tierra Amarilla) anchor this mid-century survey of the high-desert and mountain landscapes of Northern New Mexico and Southern Colorado. The map documents a complex hydrology where the Continental Divide splits the flow between the San Juan River and the Rio Grande systems. Large-scale water management is evident through the presence of the Navajo Reservoir, Heron Lake, and Abiquiu Reservoir. Transport corridors follow ancient river paths, notably the Denver & Rio Grande Western RR winding through the northern reaches. The area is defined by massive land tracts, including the Jicarilla Apache Indian Reservation and the Carson National Forest, while archaeological heritage is noted at Chaco Canyon National Monument in the southwest corner. Local industry is reflected by numerous gas wells concentrated near Bloomfield.