1970 Map of Johnson Ranch

About this map

The Johnson Ranch and the surrounding high plains of Lea County are defined by a network of ranching infrastructure and petroleum extraction. Located within the Inbe Oil Field, the landscape is dotted with numerous Oil Wells and Gravel Pits, illustrating the industrial activity of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Water management is central to life in this arid region, evidenced by a dense distribution of named water sources such as the Sand Windmill, Lucky Windmill, and Jog Windmill. To the south, the terrain descends into the Simanola Valley, where the Four Lakes Area provides a distinct geographic contrast. This area includes North Lake, East Lake, and Middle Lake, which serve as critical landmarks amidst the oil-producing flats. Notable livestock features like the X-4 Corral and X-4 Windmill further highlight the dual-purpose nature of this New Mexico territory during this era.