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1892 Map of Fort Defiance

Name: 1892 Topographic Map of Fort Defiance
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1896
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1896

About this map

Fort Defiance serves as the focal point for this late 19th-century survey of northeastern Arizona and northwestern New Mexico. This period illustrates the expansion of the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad through the southern portion of the territory, connecting frontier outposts like Sanders, Allantown, and Billings along the Carrizo Wash. The map documents a sparse landscape defined by critical water sources such as Navajo Springs, Jacobs Well, and Tanners Spring, which were essential for both the indigenous population and new arrivals.

The Navajo Indian Res. Line bisects the terrain, separating the high elevations of Salahkai Mesa and the Chinlee Valley from the rail corridor. Landmarks such as Pueblo Colorado and the distinctive Zilh Tusayan Butte provide points of orientation across the high plateau. The presence of a Store near the railroad line highlights the emerging trade network as the territory transitioned into the modern era.