1943 Map of Saltdale

About this map

Koehn Dry Lake dominates the central basin of this high-desert landscape, serving as the focal point for the Southern Pacific rail line and the settlement of Saltdale. During this wartime era, the region was an active hub of mineral extraction and defense preparation. To the north, the El Paso Mountains are peppered with numerous mining operations including the Apache Mine, Holly Mine, and Copper Basin Mine. The presence of an Army Ground Observation Station near the Petrified Forest highlights the strategic importance of this terrain in 1943. Transport and logistics were anchored by the rail corridor, connecting small outposts like Cantil and Gypsite to the historic mining hubs of Garlock and Old Garlock. Along the western edge, Red Rock Sch and Ricardo mark the entrance to the striking geology of Redrock Canyon.