1949 Map of Holy Cross

About this map

Camp Hale Military Reservation dominates the high-altitude landscape of the northern Eagle River valley, serving as a primary training ground during the mid-20th century. To the south, the industrial heritage of the Rockies is represented by Leadville and its surrounding mining landscape, where researchers can identify the Tiger Shaft, Nelson Tunnel, and the famous Matchless Mine. The Denver and Rio Grande Western railroad snakes through the valleys, connecting the settlements of Pando and Mitchell while crossing the Continental Divide at Tennessee Pass. The western portion of the map is defined by the high peaks of the White River National Forest, including the iconic Mt of the Holy Cross and the nearby Bowl of Tears. This survey captures a moment when the region's 19th-century mining origins, such as Holy Cross City, were being overlaid by modern military and aviation infrastructure like the Leadville Landing Field.