1979 Map of Socorro

About this map

Socorro serves as the focal point for this late-1970s landscape, situated where the Rio Grande valley meets the expansive high desert. The map captures a complex corridor of transit and environment, where the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway and I-25 parallel the river, connecting a series of smaller settlements including San Acacia, Polvadera, and Lemitar. To the north, the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge encompasses vast stretches of the valley, while the eastern horizon is dominated by the Los Pinos Mountains and the rising elevations of the Cibola National Forest. This survey illustrates the contrast between the irrigated river valley and the arid eastern uplands of Mesa de los Jumanos. Genealogists and historians can trace the placement of remote landmarks like Gran Quivira and specialized infrastructure such as the Monte Prieto Ranch Landing Strip.