1955 Map of Laguna

About this map

Gila City and the historic Butterfield Stage Route anchor this desert landscape along the Arizona-California border during the mid-1950s. The map illustrates a complex water management and transportation network, featuring the Imperial Dam and the Gila Gravity Main Canal branching off the Colorado River. Traces of the region's mining and riverboat history are evident at the Castle Dome Landing and the Old Senator Mine, while the modern presence of the Yuma Test Station signals the area's mid-century military importance. The Southern Pacific railroad follows the path of the Gila River through the Laguna Mountains, passing through settlements like Dome and Kinter. From the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge to the Muggins Mts, the sheet documents the transition from early pioneer trails and steamship landings to contemporary irrigation and defense infrastructure.