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1954 Map of Manzanola

Name: 1954 Topographic Map of Manzanola
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1978
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1978

About this map

Manzanola serves as a primary hub on the south side of the Arkansas River in this mid-century topographic study. The landscape is defined by an intricate network of irrigation infrastructure essential for Arkansas Valley agriculture, including the Holbrook Diversion Dam, Rocky Ford Diversion Dam, and the Fort Lyon Diversion Dam. These waterworks feed a complex system of waterways such as the Catlin Canal and Rocky Ford High Line Canal that crisscross the plains.

Transportation and education are rooted along the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe rail line, which connects the smaller communities of Vroman and Fayette. Rural life in the 1950s is evidenced by local landmarks like District No 8 Sch and Hall, while the rugged southern terrain rises toward Rocky Butte No 2. This map details a period when the river-and-rail economy dictated the placement of every schoolhouse and siding in Otero County.