1947 Map of Elgin

About this map

The San Ignacio Del Babocomari land grant dominates the eastern portion of this Arizona landscape, where the Southern Pacific railroad line connects the small ranching hubs of Elgin and Sonoita. This 1947 survey captures a ranching-heavy economy just after the war, dotted with family names such as Wilson Ranch, Putnam Ranch, and Hacienda Los Encinos. Of significant interest to local historians are the military and pioneer remnants found here, including the Old Fort Buchanan Ruins and Old Fort Crittenden Ruins near Sonoita Creek. The terrain transitions from the high peaks of Mt Hughes and the Canelo Hills into the drainage of the Babocomari River, while the presence of the County Fairgrounds and Sonoita Sch indicates the area's role as a regional community center for the surrounding Coronado National Forest.