1967 Map of La Espia Peak

About this map

The Pecos River carves a deep path through De Baca County in this late 1960s survey, revealing a landscape defined by sharp elevation changes and seasonal drainage systems. The terrain is marked by prominent landforms such as La Espia Peak and a series of deep cuts including Blanco Canyon, Rock Canyon, and Ward Canyon. Human presence is sparse, centered primarily on the Van Eaton Ranch and essential water infrastructure like the Hilltop Well and East Tank, which supported cattle and ranching operations in this arid environment. The map details an intricate network of arroyos, such as Arroyo de la Mora and Arroyo Araña, illustrating how water shaped the movement and settlement patterns of this New Mexico territory. These topographical details provide insight into the ranching life and environmental challenges of the region before the turn of the decade.