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1954 Map of South Garcia SE

Name: 1954 Topographic Map of South Garcia SE
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1980
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1980

About this map

The high desert landscape of central New Mexico is defined here by the crossing of major land grants and transport infrastructure in the mid-1950s. The Laguna Indian Reservation and Isleta Indian Reservation meet across a terrain characterized by volcanic and sedimentary landforms, including the prominent Black Mesa and the western slopes of Hidden Mountain. The Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe railroad cuts a diagonal path across the plain, following the general course of the Arroyo Garcia.

Evidence of much earlier habitation is visible in the form of multiple Indian Ruins located near the Rio Puerco and along a modern Pipe Line. This intersection of ancient sites and 20th-century utility corridors highlights the region's enduring role as a transit route. Isolated Windmills and a Water Tank scattered across Mesa Lucero and Mesa Carrizo mark the sparse improvements made to support ranching in an arid environment punctuated by occasional Salt Springs.