1964 Map of Steel Hill

About this map

Cibola National Forest dominates the western half of this mid-century New Mexico landscape, where the wooded high ground of Spruce Park gives way to a network of drainage systems. The map illustrates a transitional zone between the high elevations and the lower eastern plains, defined by prominent landmarks like Steel Hill and Bell Hill. Human activity is sparse but specific, concentrated at the Nogal Canyon Ranch and a nearby Landing Field at the mouth of Nogal Canyon. Resource extraction is evidenced by the Picky Mine located in the northwest, while water sources like Rabbit Spring and Deer Springs Canyon were critical anchors in this arid environment. The intricate contour lines detail the complex terrain of Cerra de las Cabras and the winding course of the San Jose Arroyo, reflecting the remote ranching and mining character of Socorro County during the 1960s.