1982 Map of Clayton

About this map

Clayton serves as the primary hub of this high plains landscape during the early 1980s, situated where the Colorado and Southern railroad meets the drainage of Perico Creek. The map documents a sparsely populated ranching and agricultural region spanning the border between New Mexico and Texas, specifically tracing the transition from the volcanic landmarks of the Don Carlos Hills and Cinder Mountain in the west to the deep cuts of Tramperos Creek and Ute Creek in the south. Smaller rural communities like Sofia, Gladstone, and Beenham are connected by a network of ranch roads and an old railroad grade that hints at former transportation corridors. Researchers can identify local landmarks such as Cem de la Cruz near Miera and the distinctive landforms of Chavez Mountain and The Hogback, which define the rugged geography of Union and Harding Counties.