1958 Map of Mustang Mountains

About this map

Babocomari Ranch and the expansive San Ignacio del Babocomari land grant dominate the southern portion of this high-desert landscape during the late 1950s. The terrain transitions from the high peaks of the Mustang Mountains, including Mustang Peak and Mt Bruce, down into the broad corridor of Rain Valley. This area shows a cattle-ranching economy in mid-century Arizona, with established outposts like Sands Ranch, Rain Valley Ranch, and Sands West Camp dotting the map. Infrastructure for transport and industry is evident where the Southern Pacific railroad runs parallel to the Babocomari River, passing near a Gravel Pit and through the settlement of Lyle. The northern boundary touches the Coronado National Forest near the Whetstone Mountains, where water sources like Cottonwood Spring and Mescal Spring were vital for both the local livestock and the occasional Jeep Trail traveler.