1958 Map of Cajon Mesa

About this map

Hovenweep National Monument preserves a complex archaeological landscape across the high desert of the Utah and Colorado borderlands. This 1950s survey documents numerous ancient sites including Square Tower Group Ruins, Cajon Group Ruins, and Holly Group Ruins tucked into the canyons. The mid-century economy of the area is represented by Hatch Trading Post and Ismay Trading Post, while the presence of the Hatch Trailer Sch provides a window into the remote educational infrastructure of the period. The terrain is characterized by a network of deep drainages such as Yellowjacket Canyon and McElmo Creek that cut through Cajon Mesa. These water sources, supplemented by scattered Artesian Wells, supported both the ancient inhabitants and more modern holdings like Perkins Ranch.