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1959 Map of Steeple Rock

Name: 1959 Topographic Map of Steeple Rock
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1972
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1972

About this map

Hard-rock mining operations dominate the western edge of this 1950s survey, particularly in the vicinity of Vanderbilt Peak. Historically significant sites like the Carlisle Mine, Ontario Mine, and Laura Mine reveal the intensive mineral extraction efforts that once centered around Steeple Rock. The rugged landscape is punctuated by numerous family-named landmarks and cattle operations, including the Cottonwood Ranch, Thygerson Ranch, and Estes Ranch.

Remote outposts and water sources are vital to this arid terrain, with labels marking the Mount Royal Windmill, Happy Hollow Windmill, and Bircher Flats. A notable site of conflict or historical confrontation is simply marked Battleground near the center of the sheet, while the northeastern reaches transition into the protected wilderness of the Gila National Forest. The map traces the natural drainage of the land through extensive canyon systems like Blue Creek and Sycamore Creek, providing a detailed look at the rural infrastructure of Grant and Hidalgo counties.