1964 Map of Neafus Ranch

About this map

The high plains of eastern New Mexico are defined here by a sparse network of cattle operations and rugged drainage systems straddling the boundary of San Miguel and Guadalupe counties. The landscape is centered on isolated family holdings like Neafus Ranch and Brito Ranch, which relied on the intermittent flows of Cuervo Creek and Little Cuervo Creek for livestock. These remote outposts reflect a mid-century ranching economy where settlement was dictated by water access and the breaks of Cañon Bonita. For local historians and genealogists, the map preserves specific points of early residence and burial, including a small Cem near the northwest corner and a single Grave further south. The drainage patterns of the Arroyo and Manga Creek highlight the topographic challenges of the territory, where narrow canyons and steep mesas isolated these ranching families from larger population centers.