1955 Map of Buena Vista

About this map

The Denver and Rio Grande Western RR follows the winding path of the Arkansas River in this mid-century topographic record of Chaffee County. The settlement of Buena Vista serves as the central hub, surrounded by institutional landmarks like the State Reformatory and State Fish Hatchery. The landscape transition from the valley floor to the high peaks of San Isabel National Forest and Pike National Forest is marked by scattered rural schools, including Pine Creek Sch and Maxwell Sch, reflecting the community's mid-century distribution. Industrial and recreational history intersect through the Old Midland Grade and the Rancho Sawatch (Boy Scout Camp), while mining activity is noted at the Latchaw Mine. From the heights of West Buffalo Peak to the flats of Davis Meadow, the map captures the region's diverse land use before modern expansion.