1967 Map of La Rendija

About this map

Monte Seco dominates the northern reaches of this high-desert terrain, a landscape characterized by the sparse but essential presence of water sources in a ranching environment. Recorded in the late 1960s, the map reveals a network of isolated outposts such as Julian Place and Luis Well, which point to a history of rugged land use and seasonal habitation. The topography is defined by the winding course of La Rendija and the heights of Cerro Gatos in the southwest corner. Local water management is evident through numerous tanks and ponds, including Laguna Macho, Tanque Pendejo, and Montoso Tank, which were vital for livestock survival in this arid stretch of New Mexico. The mapping of The Vega in the northwest corner further highlights the variations in vegetation and terrain that dictated the movement of both people and animals across this high-altitude range.