1955 Map of Organ

About this map

The mountain-and-desert landscape of the White Sands Proving Ground dominates this mid-century survey, centered on the strategic San Augustin Pass. The small settlement of Organ sits at the western base of the range, serving as a gateway to a terrain marked by intense mining activity. Prospects such as the Black Prince Mine, Silver King Mine, and the Empire Zinc Mine are scattered across the slopes of San Augustin Peak and Mineral Hill, indicating the area's mineral extraction history. The presence of several Ruins and scattered wells, including Boone Well and Cordova Well, points to the challenges of maintaining permanent habitations in this arid environment. The map also delineates the extensive Military Reservation Boundary, showing the intersection of local resource development and national defense infrastructure in Dona Ana County.