1982 Map of Polacca

About this map

The ancient mesas of the Hopi Indian Reservation define this high desert landscape, which reaches across the borders of Coconino and Navajo counties. Centered on the unique settlement patterns of First Mesa, Second Mesa, and Third Mesa, the map documents established villages including Old Oraibi, Hotevilla, and Walpi. These communities are oriented around the vertical geography of the land, connected by the paths of Dinnebito Wash and Oraibi Wash. To the east, the administrative and social hub at Keams Canyon sits within the canyon walls near Sunlight Mission. To the north and south, the terrain shifts into the Coal Mine Mesa and the volcanic landscape of the Hopi Buttes, while isolated outposts like Polacca and Wepo Village mark the intersection of traditional land use and modern infrastructure like the Landing Strip.