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1951 Map of Blythe

Name: 1951 Topographic Map of Blythe
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1977
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1977

About this map

The Colorado River serves as the primary boundary and lifeline for this desert region, dividing the growing agricultural and civic hub of Blythe, California, from the riverside settlement of Ehrenberg, Arizona. The town plan of Blythe shows significant mid-century development including Palo Verde Hospital, a High Sch, and the local Cem. Transport is dominated by the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe railroad and the Ehrenberg Bridge, which links the two states.

Beyond the urban core of East Blythe, the landscape is defined by an intricate network of irrigation, including the C. and D. Canal and Goodman Slough, supporting the valley's expansion. Cultural landmarks of the era are visible, such as the Drive-in Theater and the Arizona Checking Station at the border. The map also captures the natural desert washes, including Weaver Wash and Trigo Wash, as they approach the river's floodplains.