1893 Map of Higbee

About this map

The Purgatoire River carves a winding path through this corner of Southeast Colorado, defining a landscape of deep canyons and seasonal waterways at the end of the nineteenth century. Near the confluence of Higbee Canyon, the small settlement of Higbee and the J.J. Ranch represent the sparse agricultural and ranching footprint of the era. The mapping, directed by J.W. Powell, illustrates how early pioneers navigated the breaks between high plains and river bottoms, utilizing natural crossings like Muddy Gap and reliable water sources such as Alkali Spring.