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1959 Map of Prescott

Name: 1959 Topographic Map of Prescott
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1959
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1959

About this map

The Prescott National Forest and the central Arizona highlands dominate this 1950s landscape, illustrating a region defined by its industrial mining heritage and transition from wilderness to established settlements. Significant mining operations like the United Verde Mine near the hillside community of Jerome and the Bagdad Mine to the west highlight the extractive economy that fueled development in Yavapai County. The mapping also details the crucial transportation network of the era, including the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe railroad line and major routes like U.S. 89.

Beyond the larger towns of Prescott and Cottonwood, the survey identifies smaller, remote outposts such as Swansea and Camp Wood, along with the Camp Whipple Military Reservation. The intricate drainage systems of the Verde River, Agua Fria River, and Bill Williams River are mapped alongside the dramatic topography of the Bradshaw Mountains and the Aquarius Cliffs, providing a comprehensive view of the territory before modern suburban expansion.