1916 Map of Point Of Sands

About this map

White Sands and the vast Alkali Flat dominate this 1916 survey of the Tularosa Basin, revealing a landscape defined by water scarcity and ranching endurance. Scattered throughout the arid basin floor are numerous family-named landmarks like Bairds Ranch and McNew Ranch, which served as critical hubs of activity before the region became a closed military range. To the west, the San Andres Mountains rise sharply, providing a source for San Nicolas Spring and Bennett Camp. This era captures early industrial interests such as the Eddy Soda Prospect near Lake Lucero, while the El Paso and Southwestern railroad cuts through the eastern edge at Escondida, connecting this remote basin to the broader regional economy.