1955 Map of Gould

About this map

Michigan River headwaters define the character of this mid-century high-altitude landscape, where ranching and forestry intersect on the edge of the Routt National Forest and the Colorado State Forest. The settlement of Gould sits as a central node in a valley floor crisscrossed by an intricate network of irrigation channels like the Overland Ditch, Longhorn Ditch, and Domestic Supply Ditch. These diversions illustrate the intensive water management required to support mountain ranching at sites such as the Stelbars Michigan River Ranch and Riley Ranch. Social and administrative hubs are clearly marked, including the Haworth Sch, the Michigan River Ranger Sta, and the Cameron Pass 4-H Club Camp. The terrain is framed by the massive rises of Custer Mountain and Owl Mountain, showing a transition from valley agriculture to protected forest land.