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1913 Map of Red Mesa

Name: 1913 Topographic Map of Red Mesa
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1948
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1948

About this map

The La Plata River carves a deep valley through this Southwest Colorado landscape, defining the agricultural and social development of the Red Mesa region just before World War I. This 1911 survey illustrates a community reliant on intricate irrigation systems like the Durango Ditch and Pruett Ditch to sustain high-altitude farming. Small rural hubs such as Kline, Redmesa, and Breen are centers of gravity for the local population, supported by essential institutions including the Mormon Church, Binner School, and Rockville School.

A notable boundary line identifies the South Boundary Ceded Land, referencing the complex history of territorial shifts in the San Juan Basin. Transportation is anchored by the Rio Grande Southern RR in the northeast corner, while a network of named drainages like Alkali Gulch and Cherry Creek feed into the primary river system. Distinctive volcanic features, including North Cinder Butte and South Cinder Butte, rise above the mesa floor, providing stark landmarks for early settlers and travelers.