1961 Map of Canada Calladita

About this map

Rancho De Stephan and Tucker Ranch stand as primary evidence of former settlement along the high desert drainages of northwestern New Mexico. This 1961 survey, updated with 1980s aerial data, reveals a landscape defined by an intricate network of seasonal watercourses and stock tanks vital to ranching operations. The terrain is deeply incised by major canyons including Cañada Saladita, Cañada Calladita, and Cañon Ignacio, which converge toward the broad Arroyo Chico. The presence of numerous named water catchments like Rattlesnake Tank and Mud Flat Tank underscores the essential role of water management in this arid region. Spanning the boundary between McKinley and Sandoval counties, the map documents the geographic transition where these complex canyon systems meet larger drainages like Torreon Wash and Arroyo Gallina.