1970 Map of Kin Nahzin Ruins

About this map

The Continental Divide winds through the southern reaches of this high-desert landscape in McKinley County, defining the drainage patterns of the surrounding high plains. In this 1970 snapshot, the local economy and infrastructure are clearly centered on water and subsurface exploration. A network of individual water sources and industrial markers, such as the Electric Well, Hubbel Well, and Hogan Well, suggests a reliance on groundwater for both livestock and small-scale operations. Evidence of resource extraction or exploration is visible in the presence of a Drill Hole and the Pumpjack Well further north. Near the southern edge, the small landmark of Midwest sits along the dividing ridge, while Fajada Wash carves through the northern terrain, illustrating the sparse but vital water system of this New Mexico quadrangle.