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1973 Map of Blind Gap

Name: 1973 Topographic Map of Blind Gap
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1977
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1977

About this map

Corrumpa Creek and a network of ephemeral waterways define this high-plains landscape in Union County, where the topography transitions through prominent breaks like Blind Gap and Telephone Gap. The map provides a clear look at the rural infrastructure of the early 1970s, featuring the isolated Smith Landing Strips and several Wells and Well sites that supported ranching operations in this arid region.

Evidence of early settlement and land use is found in the scattered landmarks, including a small Cem located near the northern edge. The drainage patterns of Turkey Canyon, Canario Canyon, and the various branches of Rafaelito Creek and Rafael Creek illustrate how water dictated the placement of roads and homesteads. These natural corridors, along with Sand Creek and Sand Spring, remain the primary landmarks for local history researchers and genealogists tracing the development of this corner of New Mexico.