1948 Map of Tularosa

About this map

The town of Tularosa sits at the foot of the desert highlands, where the Tularosa River and Rinconada Creek emerge from the mountains. This mid-century landscape is defined by its transition from ranching to military research, with the vast expanse of The Sands and White Sands dominating the western half of the quadrangle. The map documents the Alamogordo Bombing Range Proving Ground and the California Institute of Technology Ordnance Bombing Range, illustrating how the desert terrain was utilized for post-war technological testing. Remote outposts like Stover Ranch and Purday Ranch appear alongside specialized infrastructure such as the Tularosa Range Camp and various Airstrips. The Southern Pacific railroad provides a critical transit line through the valley, connecting the high desert settlements to the broader region.