1963 Map of Fort Union

About this map

Fort Union National Monument serves as the focal point of this 1963 survey, preserving the legacy of the prominent frontier military post in the high plains of Mora. The map details the Ruins and Headquarters of the site, which was a critical hub of the Santa Fe Trail during the mid-19th century. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the volcanic profile of Black Mesa and the deep incision of Higgins Canyon, where reliable water sources like Higgins Canyon Spring and Black Mesa Spring were vital for travelers and livestock alike. Traces of historical land use are evident in the Fort Union Cem and the Fort Union Ranch. The Mora River and Wolf Creek provide the primary drainage for this arid territory, where the convergence of military history and iconic southwestern trails is etched into the topography.