Loading map...

1949 Map of Holy Joe Peak

Name: 1949 Topographic Map of Holy Joe Peak
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1987
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1987

About this map

The high desert canyons and peaks of Pinal County are documented here following a mid-century field check, illustrating a landscape of isolated ranching and mining. Cattle operations and family homesteads are scattered throughout the difficult terrain, including Mounterest Ranch, Reese Ranch, and the Blake Place. This era shows the transition of local infrastructure, notably evidenced by the Vale District Sch (Aband), signaling a shift in the remote settlement patterns of the Arizona backcountry.

Industrial activity is centered around the mineral prospects of the Galiuro Mountains, with the Martinez Mtn Mine and Oak Mining Mtn serving as primary landmarks. The map tracks the complex drainage systems of the region, from the flow of Aravaipa Creek to the seasonal washes of Bright Angel Wash and Zapata Wash. These water sources and the network of unimproved trails like Zapata Road were vital for the survival of remote outposts like Horse Camp.