1961 Map of Pueblo Pintado

About this map

Chaco Canyon National Monument anchors this 1960s survey of the high desert landscape in McKinley County, capturing a region where ancient history and modern infrastructure meet. The map reveals the layout of the Pueblo Pintado settlement, including the Pueblo Pintado Sch and a Pueblo Pintado Landing Strip that serve this remote community. Ancient habitation is marked by several Ruins and a Cliff Dwelling situated along the slopes of Pueblo Pintado Canyon. The terrain is dominated by the broad expanse of Chaco Mesa, dissected by drainage systems like Chaco Wash and Burning Wash. Water sources such as Ramona Spring and a simple Spring appear as critical points in the arid environment. A prominent Pipeline cuts across the canyon floor, illustrating the mid-century industrial overlay on this traditional Navajo and ancestral Puebloan territory.