1933 Map of Avenal Gap

About this map

The Kettleman Hills dominate this 1930s landscape where the Central Valley begins its ascent into the interior ranges. This survey captures a specific moment in the development of the California oil fields, highlighting the geological structures of Middle Dome and South Dome which were critical to the era's petroleum exploration. The topographic detail reveals the transition from the flat expanse of the Antelope Plain and Kettleman Plain into the complex drainages of Arroyo Poso and Arroyo Ancho. On the western edge of the hills, the small settlement of Devils Den and the nearby Devils Den Sch represent the sparse human footprint in this arid terrain. Roads connect these outposts to distant hubs like Bakersfield and Coalinga, while the boundary between Kings Co and Kern Co bisects the rugged uplands near Cascajo Hill.