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1945 Map of Inspiration

Name: 1945 Topographic Map of Inspiration
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1982
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1982

About this map

Industrial copper extraction dominates the landscape near Miami, where massive mining operations like the Castle Dome Mine and the Castle Dome Concentrator have reshaped the terrain. This 1945 survey, updated with 1982 photorevisions, shows the extensive footprint of the Inspiration site and its Inspiration Main Shaft. The presence of several shafts and tunnels, including the Bonanza Tunnel and Money Metal Shaft, underscores a century of heavy mineral production in this corner of the Tonto National Forest.

Beyond the industrial zones, traces of earlier habitation and agriculture remain. The map marks Indian Ruins near Ruin Basin, providing a link to pre-settlement history. Family operations and small outposts such as Bohme Ranch, Horrel Ranch, and the Williams Dairy (Site) are scattered among the canyons and peaks like Porphyry Mtn and Sleeping Beauty. The complex network of springs, including Vicar of Lye Spr and Prince Charming Spr, highlights the critical importance of water management in this arid environment.