1972 Map of Goodson School

About this map

Goodson School stands at the heart of this 1970s landscape, positioned near the intersection of several historic irrigation channels including Roberts Ditch and Wiggins Ditch. This tri-state corner region is defined by the high, flat plateaus of Black Mesa and Middle Mesa, where the terrain drops sharply into the canyon of the Dry Cimarron River. The map documents a sparsely populated ranching and agricultural economy, where water management is paramount, as evidenced by the numerous Springs and windmills like the Rincon Windmill. Several historic arroyos and canyons, such as Potter Canyon and Smiley Arroyo, cut through the mesas to meet the river valley. The presence of a Landing Strip and multiple Prospects suggests the ongoing importance of local transportation and mineral exploration in this secluded corner of Union County.