1950 Map of Mescalero

About this map

Mescalero Apache Indian Reservation land dominates this mid-century survey, centered on the communities and canyons of Otero County. The settlement of Mescalero serves as a focal point along the Rio Tularosa, where local history is anchored by the St Josephs Mission, the Mescalero Indian Cem, and the industrial site of Blazens Mill. Further west, the village of Bent is noted for the Bent Public Sch and nearby Ruins, illustrating the concentrated development along the primary canyon floors. The landscape is defined by a series of significant drainages including Tularosa Canyon and Nogal Canyon, which descend through the Lincoln National Forest. Smaller outposts such as Ranchario and the Geronimo Lodge reflect the area's mix of ranching, forest management, and early tourism, while an Aqueduct and various water tanks like Soldier Tank indicate the vital infrastructure required for life in the high New Mexico terrain.