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1952 Map of Paxton Springs

Name: 1952 Topographic Map of Paxton Springs
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1954
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1954

About this map

Paxton Springs serves as a focal point in this 1952 topographic study, situated within the rugged expanse of the Cibola National Forest. The landscape is dominated by the Zuni Mountains, where the Continental Divide crests along Oso Ridge. This high-altitude terrain is marked by significant geological and hydrological features, including the volcanic activity suggested by a prominent Cinder Pit and several vital water sources like Agua Fria Spring, La Jara Spring, and Malpais Spring.

The presence of a Telephone Line cutting through the canyons highlights the mid-century infrastructure required to connect these remote mountain outposts. Canyons such as La Jara Canyon and Capulin Canyon carve deep paths through the forest, revealing the complex drainage patterns feeding into Agua Fria Creek. For those studying the history of Valencia County, this map provides a clear view of the land before modern development, detailing the relationship between reliable springs and early mountain settlement.