1948 Map of Ayer

About this map

The Snake River carves through the basalt landscape of eastern Washington in this 1948 survey, marking the boundary between Franklin and Walla Walla Counties. The topography is defined by the river’s deep trench and the winding Skookum Canyon, which cuts north toward the plateau. Along the river banks, the Union Pacific rail line connects small sidings and communities like Ayer, Magallon, and Ruxby. This area reflects the mid-century agricultural and transit-heavy economy of the Palouse region, where numerous family operations like the Hair Farm, Baker Farm, and Lasater Farm are identified.