1955 Map of Petrified Forest

About this map

The Petrified Forest National Monument occupies the central expanse of this mid-century landscape, where the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe railroad and U. S. 66 cross the northern reaches near Adamana. This era captures the park's early infrastructure, including the Headquarters and landmark features like Agate Bridge, Newspaper Rock, and the Agate House. Beyond the monument boundaries, the map details the ranching and pioneer footprint of Navajo and Apache counties, with family names appearing at Ortegas Ranch, Paulcell Place, and Ubank Place. The drainage of the Puerco River and the Lithodendron Wash define the erosional character of the terrain, while specific formations like The Tepees and The Battleship serve as distinctive navigational markers in the high desert.