1953 Map of Espuela

About this map

The high plains of the Pecos River Valley south of the Chaves Co and Eddy Co line reveal a landscape transitioning from agricultural dependence to industrial and military utility. Water management is central to the area's development, evidenced by the Cottonwood Artesian Recorder Well and several irrigation features including Cottonwood Creek and a network of abandoned ditches. Social life in this rural corridor is anchored by the Cottonwood Community Church and the nearby Cottonwood School, while the eastern edge is defined by the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe railroad line passing through Espuela. The map also records the remnants of World War II-era aviation infrastructure at the Walker Air Base Emergency Landing Field (Aband), alongside active extraction sites like the active caliche pit.