1953 Map of Leo

About this map

Pedro Mountains dominate this 1953 landscape in Carbon County, where high-elevation ranching and rugged topography define the land use. The map reveals a sparse network of isolated outposts, including Peters Ranch and Indian Grove Ranch, connected by primitive routes like Kortz Road. Evidence of shifting habitation is clear at Combs Ranch (Aband), reflecting the difficulty of maintaining permanent settlements in this high-plains environment. The terrain is deeply incised by numerous seasonal drainages such as Galusha Draw and Gooseberry Creek, which flow around prominent landmarks like Pyramid Peak and The Chimneys. Surveyed as part of the Department of the Interior’s program for the Missouri River Basin development, the map details a region where water sources like Indian Springs were critical to the survival of the early sheep and cattle operations documented here.