1974 Map of Ryan Draw

About this map

The Graham Co Cochise Co boundary line bisects this arid landscape, where water management is the primary human imprint on the terrain. In the mid-1970s, the region relied on a network of infrastructure to capture infrequent desert rainfall, including the Ryan Detention Dam, Sands Draw Detention Dam, and cattle-related water sources like Charco Tank and Antelope Well. The map captures the transition from the upland drainage of Ryan Draw and Gold Gulch down to the broad alluvial deposit known as The Fan near the San Simon River. Small-scale resource extraction is evident from numerous Mine and Prospect labels scattered across the hills. Outside of the isolated Foote Ranch, the area is largely defined by open range and a sparse network of Jeep Trails.