1982 Map of Mockingbird Gap

About this map

White Sands Missile Range dominates this 1982 map of the High Desert, showing the integration of military utility and natural geography in Socorro County. The landscape is defined by the steep elevation changes between the Mockingbird Mountains and the Little Burro Mountains, separated by the strategic corridor of Mockingbird Gap. Archaeological and historical sites such as Gus Site and Queen Site suggest the long history of human presence in this arid environment, while scattered Mine symbols and Prospects indicate the region's mineral interests. Water sources are critical landmarks in this terrain, represented by names like Mockingbird Spring, Hoffman Spring, and various man-made catchments including Babers Tank and Murry Tank. This survey reflects the mid-century transition of the New Mexico desert into a landscape of specialized government use while preserving the locations of these vital, isolated springs and early settlements.