1970 Map of Walking Cane Ranch

About this map

The Oil Field dominates the high plains of Lea County, New Mexico, in this mid-century topographic survey. The landscape is defined by an extensive network of pipelines and drill holes, reflecting the intensive energy production of the era. Scattered throughout this industrial setting are isolated outposts like Walking Cane Ranch and the settlement of Warren, which appear alongside numerous water-pumping landmarks essential for survival in this arid environment. Names such as Antelope Windmill, Lambert Windmill, and Oil Well Windmill mark the terrain, highlighting the reliance on groundwater to support both ranching and the oil industry. The inclusion of various Gravel Pits further emphasizes the extractive nature of the local economy during the 1970s.