1949 Map of Naturita NW

About this map

The Thunderbolt Mine stands as a primary industrial landmark in this post-war survey of the borderlands between Montrose and San Miguel Counties. The landscape is dominated by the dramatic elevation changes of the Paradox Valley, where the drainage of East Paradox Creek carves through the northern reaches. This era of mapping shows the region prior to extensive modern development, characterized by isolated water sources like Thunderbolt Spring and the high-altitude plateaus of Monogram Mesa.