1954 Map of Carlisle 4 SW

About this map

Cliff Dwellings tucked into the complex drainage systems of Salt Creek define this 1954 preliminary survey of San Juan County. The landscape is a labyrinth of erosion, characterized by the high elevations of Cedar Mesa and Bridger Jack Mesa, which tower over deeply incised watercourses like Horse Canyon. This map was produced during a transition in cartographic methods, utilizing multiplex photogrammetry from 1953 aerial photography to document a terrain where modern development was nearly non-existent. Aside from a single Prospect in the northeast and the ancient archaeological sites, the area remains dominated by its natural geometry. The inclusion of Big Pocket and various unnamed forks illustrates the remote character of the territory before more detailed 15-minute series maps were finalized for the region.