1969 Map of Rattlesnake Canyon

About this map

The Monument Oil Field dominates this 1960s landscape in Lea County, illustrating the intensive industrial development of the Permian Basin. This survey documents a complex network of oil and gas infrastructure, including a Chemical Plant, Gas Plant, and multiple pipelines that crisscross the arid terrain. Small industrial hubs like Maypens, Teague, and Johnson serve as focal points along the Texas New Mexico railroad line, which provided the essential transportation link for the region's petroleum output. The physical geography is defined by the winding course of Rattlesnake Canyon Draw, which cuts through the plateau, while numerous gravel pits suggest ongoing road construction and maintenance to support the field's heavy vehicle traffic. This map captures the region at a peak of energy production, characterized by Radio Towers and electrical substations powering the remote operations.