1915 Map of Del Norte

About this map

Del Norte sits at the foot of the La Garita Mountains, serving as a gateway between the high peaks of the Rio Grande National Forest and the irrigated valley floor. In the early 20th century, this landscape was defined by an intricate network of water management, including the Travelers Canal, Farmers Union Ditch, and Wurtz Ditch, which transformed the arid flats into a productive agricultural region. The Denver and Rio Grande railroad provided the vital connection for transport through the valley, passing through Monte Vista and Parma. The map reveals a dense rural educational infrastructure, with numerous family-named and local schools such as Welty School, Noffsinger School, and Veteran School scattered across the township grid. These sites, along with the State Fish Hatchery and settlements like Sevenmile Plaza, reflect a well-established community anchored by water rights and rail access.