1906 Map of Desert Well

About this map

The Salt River Ind Res and the irrigation infrastructure of the Salt River valley anchor this 1904 survey of the Arizona desert. Early ranching and mining operations are visible at Buchanan's Ranch and the Bulldog Mine at the foot of the Goldfield Mts., while the southern landscape shows the arrival of the Santa Fe Prescott and Phoenix RR near Higley. A critical feature of this arid terrain is the Desert Well, recorded at a depth of 212 feet, which served as a vital water source along the Base Line before the expansion of the Highland Canal and Consolidated Canal fully transformed the region’s agricultural capacity. The map also delineates the Maricopa and Pinal County boundary line as it crosses through the Pass Mts. and the open desert floor.