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1955 Map of Ouray

Name: 1955 Topographic Map of Ouray
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1957
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1957

About this map

Ouray sits at the base of dramatic vertical terrain where the Uncompahgre River carves through the Uncompahgre Gorge. This mid-century survey documents the transition of a mountain landscape from an intensive mining center to a destination for leisure and transit. The town’s industrial roots are visible in the heavy concentration of named claims and processing sites flanking the canyon, including the American Lead and Zinc Mill, Silvershield Mill, and the Pony Express Mine.

Evidence of historical transportation patterns appears in the Old Railroad Grade winding northward along the river, contrasted by the modern path of U.S. 550. Local topography is detailed with landmarks like Box Canyon and The Blowout, alongside family-named holdings such as Dalpaz Ranch and Erickson Ranch. The map also captures early public amenities like the town Swimming Pool and Rotary Park, marking the early era of alpine tourism in the San Juans.