1971 Map of Fort McDowell

About this map

Fort McDowell stands as a primary point of interest in this orthophotoquad, situated along the western banks of the Verde River. Captured through photogrammetric methods in the early 1970s, the imagery reveals the sharp contrast between the riparian corridor and the arid landscape of the surrounding Sonoran Desert. The settlement pattern at the fort is clearly visible against the meandering river, which serves as the dominant geographical feature of the region. To the northwest, Lousley Hill rises from the desert floor, providing a distinct landmark within the varied terrain. The inclusion of Sycamore to the south further defines the local geography. This specific type of aerial survey allows for a precise visual record of land use and vegetation density during a period of transition for Maricopa County, documenting the state of the valley before further modern development altered the river's immediate surroundings.