The Four Corners Monument: History and Significance

The Four Corners Monument marks the only quadripoint in the United States where four states meet: Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah.

Historical Development

• 1868: Ehud Darling surveys 37th parallel (CO-NM) and 32nd meridian (AZ-UT)—initial boundary lines
• 1875: Chandler Robbins surveys NM-AZ line, places sandstone shaft at intersection
• 1899: Hubert Page resurveys, replaces marker
• 1912: First permanent cement pad and marker installed
• 1992: Current aluminum-bronze disk set in granite dedicated
• 2009: Rebuilt after survey discrepancy (2.5 ft) resolved

Intentional Design

Yes—the quadripoint was deliberately created by congressional boundary definitions:
• Colorado Territory (1861): 37°–41° N, 25°–32° W (Washington meridian)
• Arizona Territory (1863): West of 32° W, south of 37° N
• New Mexico Territory: East of 32° W, south of 37° N
• Utah Territory: West of 32° W, north of 37° N

The convergence at 36°59'56"N, 109°02'43"W was a geometric consequence of rectangular territorial design.

Current Status

• Managed by Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation
• Visitor center, vendor market, restrooms
• ~500,000 visitors/year
• Fee: $8/person (cash only)
• Open year-round, weather permitting