1981 Map of Upham Hills

About this map

Upham Hills and the prominent Point of Rocks define the topography of this high desert region along the boundary of Sierra and Doña Ana counties. Published in 1982, this survey documents a landscape focused on ranching and water management in an arid environment, where scattered catchments like Houge Tank, Turner Tank, and Broke Tank are essential for local operations. The map reflects a period of modern ranching life at the Flat Lake Ranch, situated near the seasonal Flat Lake and the wide Jornada Draw. Multiple drill holes and a network of jeep trails suggest ongoing geological exploration and access throughout the rugged terrain. These features, along with names like Chicken Well and Kacy Tank, provide a detailed record of land use and water rights crucial for genealogists and local historians studying the history of the Jornada del Muerto region.