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1953 Map of Prowers

Name: 1953 Topographic Map of Prowers
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1954
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1954

About this map

Big Timbers and the braided channels of the Arkansas River dominate this landscape in southeastern Colorado, where the transition from riverine woodland to high plains topography is marked by a complex network of early irrigation infrastructure. The map reveals a high concentration of water management features, including the Keesee Canal, Sunflower Ditch, and Fort Bent Canal, illustrating the vital role of water diversion for agricultural survival in Bent County.

Evidence of westward expansion and frontier commerce is prominent, with the Old Santa Fe Trail paralleling the river and the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe railroad. Notable archaeological and commemorative sites are situated near the banks, such as Old Fort Lyon (Ruins) and the Bents New Fort Historical Marker (Ruins). Small community nodes like Prowers and Four Corners Crossing anchor the rural survey sections, while burial grounds including The Home Cemetery and High Cemetery provide essential data for genealogical research.