1955 Map of Canyon Del Muerto

About this map

Canyon De Chelly and its northern branch, Canyon Del Muerto, reveal a complex landscape of deep sandstone gorges and ancient habitation within the Navajo Indian Reservation. This mid-century survey documents the spatial relationship between numerous prehistoric cliff dwellings, such as Massacre Cave Ruins and Mummy Cave Ruins, and the contemporary presence of the Canyon Del Muerto School. The map serves as a detailed record of the Canyon De Chelly National Monument before the expansion of modern tourism infrastructure, when movement through the canyons relied heavily on the Jeep Trail network. Prominent landmarks like Spider Rock and Face Rock stand as sentinels over the canyon floor, while smaller drainages like Three Turkey Canyon show additional archaeological sites such as Three Turkey Ruins tucked away from the primary corridors.