1955 Map of Silverton

About this map

Silverton serves as the industrial and transport hub of this high-altitude landscape, centered at the confluence of the Animas River and Cement Creek. Surveyed in the mid-1950s, the map reveals a complex web of mineral extraction, showing a transition between early mining efforts and mid-century operations. Evidence of the region’s silver and gold heritage is everywhere, from the Silver Crown Mill and Mayflower Mill to the numerous workings tucked into the gulches, such as the Brooklyn Mine and Idaho Mine. The Denver and Rio Grande Western railroad tracks hug the riverbanks, providing the vital narrow-gauge link for moving ore out of the mountains. Beyond the town site, the Million Dollar Highway snakes through the San Juan National Forest, passing through the small settlement of Chattanooga and providing access to the high peaks of Sultan Mountain and Kendall Mountain. Local history is further grounded by the Hillside Cem and a small Airstrip near the river.