1970 Map of Red Lake Well

About this map

The Navajo Indian Reservation landscape of 1970 is defined by its sparse but vital water sources across the high desert terrain. Located in McKinley County, the area centers on the eponymous Red Lake Well (Flowing), a notable perennial water point for local livestock and habitation in an otherwise arid environment. This 1970 survey, based on aerial photography from the previous year, highlights the intricate drainage patterns of Indian Creek, which cuts through the mesas in the northeast. The map's detail of fence lines and unimproved roads reveals the delicate infrastructure required for ranching and movement across the reservation during this era, providing a precise record of human presence in a landscape where permanent settlements are few and far between.