1914 Map of Blue Mesa

About this map

Blue Mesa dominates the central landscape of this territory, situated along the county boundary shared by Washakie and Hot Springs Counties. Surveyed before World War I, the map details a complex drainage system essential to life in this arid environment. Significant water sources like Keg Spring and Harris Spring are recorded alongside ephemeral waterways such as Sand Draw and Coal Draw. The primary hydrological features include Gooseberry Creek to the north and the meandering Cottonwood Creek through the center, which is fed by Grass Creek and several deep gulches. The terrain is characterized by these deeply incised draws and forks, illustrating the natural erosion patterns of the high plains. While largely unpopulated by settlements at this time, the presence of named landmarks and spring locations suggests a landscape heavily utilized for ranching and resource extraction.