1951 Map of Dendora Valley

About this map

Oatman Grave and Furr Grave stand as poignant markers of mid-19th-century frontier history within the Oatman Flat area. This 1951 survey documents the rugged desert landscape where the Gila River cuts through the Dendora Valley and the Gila River Canyon. The Southern Pacific railroad traverses the northern reaches of the Palomas Plain, connecting remote outposts like Sundad and the former location of Papago. Mining and ranching interests are evident at the Rawley Mine, Dendora Ranch, and Jordan Ranch. The terrain is dominated by prominent volcanic and desert formations, including Face Mountain with its Montezuma Head landmark, the Gila Bend Mountains, and the Painted Rock Mountains. Dozens of desert washes, such as Fourth of July Wash and Yellow Medicine Wash, illustrate the complex drainage system feeding into the river valley.