1964 Map of Mc Kenna Peak

About this map

Bassnet Homestead and Heldman Homestead anchor this mid-1960s landscape, reflecting the scattered ranching and agricultural efforts along the border of San Miguel and Dolores counties. The topography is dominated by the broad Spring Creek Basin and the prominent McKenna Peak, with the terrain falling away toward Disappointment Creek in the south. This area illustrates the critical importance of water management in a high-elevation arid environment, evidenced by the presence of Custer Ditch, Desert Claim Ditch, and Custer Dam. Navigation across the draws and canyons, such as Still Canyon and Wildcat Canyon, is facilitated by a network of unimproved routes, including the uniquely named The Butterfly trail. The presence of a Gaging Sta and multiple named springs suggests a landscape where every water source was essential for the survival of early settlements and livestock.