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1948 Map of Superior

Name: 1948 Topographic Map of Superior
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1953
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1953

About this map

Superior's copper mining legacy is etched across this mid-century landscape, dominated by the massive operations of the Magma Copper Co and its surrounding infrastructure. The industrial footprint includes a smelter, tailings pond, and the Magma Arizona Railroad winding through the canyons to service the mineral wealth of the district. Beyond the town, the terrain is dotted with legendary prospects and workings like the Silver King Mine, Fortuna Mine, and the Belmont Mine near Silverado Ridge.

Transitioning from industrial to pastoral, remote outposts like Reevis Ranch and Miles Ranch highlight the sparse settlement patterns in the shadow of Montana Mtn. Significant landmarks such as Picketpost Mountain and the ancient Cliff Dwellings provide clear navigational markers amidst a complex network of springs, including the distinctive Case Knife Spr and Fifty Dollar Spr. The map records a moment when the copper economy and cattle ranching coexisted at the edge of the Tonto National Forest.