1971 Map of Clay Ranch

About this map

Clay Ranch and the small settlement of Ruxton occupy a high-plains landscape in southeastern Colorado, defined by a network of seasonal drainages and early transport lines. The Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe railroad cuts diagonally across the terrain, illustrating the critical role of rail infrastructure in connecting these remote ranching outposts. This 1971 survey marks a significant jurisdictional intersection where Bent, Las Animas, and Baca counties meet. The topography is characterized by the carving action of Rule Creek and Cottonwood Creek, which have created a series of draws and breaks such as Ruxton Draw and Cardoza Creek. These watercourses were vital to the local livestock economy, providing the necessary geography for the cattle operations that shaped this corner of the state during the mid-20th century.