1893 Map of Las Vegas

About this map

Las Vegas serves as the focal point for this 1889 reconnaissance survey, captured at a time when the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad was reshaping the commerce of northeastern New Mexico. The map illustrates a landscape transitioning from traditional Hispanic plazas to American territorial outposts, with Fort Union standing at the northeastern edge of the sheet. The settlement pattern follows the life-giving waters of the Mora River, Sapello Creek, and Gallinas Creek, where established communities like La Cueva, Sapello, and San Geronimo are situated at the intersection of steep mountain terrain and open plains. Beyond the rail lines, the topography rises sharply toward the Santa Fe National Forest, dominated by peaks like Solitario Pk and Barrillas Pk. The inclusion of Hot Springs near the city suggests the early development of the region's therapeutic and social hubs.