1954 Map of Iris Nw

About this map

The New Mexico Principal Meridian serves as a critical survey boundary across this high-elevation landscape in the mid-1950s. The terrain is defined by a dendritic network of drainages, where Gold Basin Creek and South Beaver Creek carve through the high plateaus of the West. While much of the area is accessible only via unnamed tracks or Jeep Trails, the presence of a Landing Field in the southeastern quadrant suggests the logistical importance of aviation for land management or ranching in this part of the Rockies. The map also records the administrative boundary between Gunnison Co and Saguache Co, illustrating how county lines were established across deep ravines like Stubbs Gulch and Long Gulch. This survey captures a moment of transition, including revisions from 1970 that track subtle changes in the upland hydrology and remote access routes.