1905 Map of Yuma

About this map

The confluence of the Colorado River and Gila River defines this landscape during the early 20th century, a time of intense irrigation development and mining activity along the California-Arizona border. The settlement of Yuma serves as the regional anchor, flanked by the Yuma Indian Reservation and the sprawling Imperial Canal system that transformed the desert into agricultural land. North of the river, the San Isidro Mountains and Cargo Muchacho range house significant mining operations including the American Mine, American Girl, and the Picacho Mine near Picacho Pk. The southern portion of the map traces the international boundary between the United States and Mexico, showing the early footprint of Somerton and the winding course of the river before its modern channelization. This era's transport is dominated by the Southern Pacific railroad, which connects desert stops like Ogilby and Cactus to the river valley.