Loading map...

1957 Map of Mesa Gigante

Name: 1957 Topographic Map of Mesa Gigante
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1978
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1978

About this map

Mesa Gigante (Bell Rock Mesa) dominates this high desert landscape, serving as a massive topographical anchor where the Paguate Purchase Grant, Laguna Indian Reservation, and Canoncito Navajo Indian Reservation converge. The mapping, based on 1950s field data, illustrates a complex system of land grants and tribal boundaries during a period of mid-century federal oversight. Drainage patterns are defined by deep incisions like Sandoval Canyon and the winding course of Arroyo Bell, which cut through the limestone and sandstone plateaus.

Evidence of range management and early aviation technology appears in remote landmarks such as the Harrington Windmill and an Airway Beacon perched on the mesa's edge. Natural water sources like Alamos Spring provide critical points of reference in an arid environment, while prominent features such as Hawks Lookout Rock and Bell Rock offer distinctive navigational markers across the various grants and reservation lands.