1952 Map of Puye

About this map

Puye Cliff Dwellings and numerous other archaeological sites dominate this landscape, reflecting a long history of habitation along the mesas and canyons of northern New Mexico. The geography is defined by deeply incised drainages including Santa Clara Canyon and Guaje Canyon, which cut through the Otowi Mesa toward the Rio Grande. This mid-century survey, updated in the early 1990s, captures the intersection of ancient history and modern industry. While ancient Cliff Dwellings and ruins are preserved within the Santa Clara Indian Reservation, the southern portion of the map shows the expansion of the Los Alamos National Laboratory. Industrial activity is marked by the Copar Pumice Mine and a Gravel Pit, while transportation infrastructure is anchored by the Otowi Bridge crossing the river near the settlement of Totavi.