1969 Map of Phoenix

About this map

Phoenix and its surrounding desert basins are captured here during a period of significant suburban expansion, visualized through experimental space photomapping from Apollo 9. The burgeoning developments of Sun City and Glendale contrast with the rugged terrain of the White Tank Mountains and Sierra Estrella. To the west, the landscape is defined by traditional mining and ranching areas, including the historic Vulture Mine and the remote Kofa Game Range. The map highlights the vital role of water management in this arid region, showing the Gila River corridor, Painted Rock Reservoir, and the Agua Fria River feeding into Lake Pleasant. This composite view integrates satellite-era technology with traditional topographic surveying, documenting the intersection of military installations like Luke Air Force Base and the extensive transportation networks of the Southern Pacific and Atchison Topeka & Santa Fe railroads.