1965 Map of Bear Spring

About this map

Lincoln National Forest land dominates this mid-1960s survey of the high-elevation New Mexico backcountry. The landscape is defined by an intricate network of deep drainages, including Sleepy Grass Canyon and Jim Lewis Canyon, where early habitation and livestock management are evidenced by the Jeffers Cem and several water improvements like Lick Tank. The rugged geography necessitated the Garnisa Lookout Tower for fire observation over the surrounding timber. Family names are etched into the terrain through landmarks such as McEwan Spring and Jeffers Spring. Perennial water sources were vital in this environment, with Bluewater Creek and the namesake Bear Spring providing essential resources in a region otherwise marked by seasonal runoff and steep ridgelines like Lick Ridge.