1960 Map of Davis Mesa

About this map

Mining operations dominate the rugged landscape of Montrose County during this mid-century survey, specifically concentrated around the high plateaus and canyon rims. The Dolores River cuts through the northwest, while the Paradox Valley floor shows early industrial and agricultural infrastructure, including a Salt Evaporator and Corral No 1. The map is particularly notable for its dense cluster of named mines on the eastern slopes of Davis Mesa, where claims like the Dorothy Mine, Phonograph Mine, and Florence-Nellie Mine illustrate the region's intensive uranium and vanadium prospecting era. Away from the industrial activity, smaller details such as a lone Grave near Paradox Creek and various dams provide evidence of the scattered human presence in this high-desert terrain.