1959 Map of Caliente Mountain

About this map

The Caliente Range dominates this mid-century landscape, separating the arid expanse of the Carrizo Plain from the Cuyama Valley. This 1959 survey reveals an economy deeply rooted in both ranching and petroleum extraction, with extensive holdings like Chimineas Ranch, Spanish Ranch, and Goodwin Ranch marking the territory. The presence of the Russel Ranch Oil Field, Morales Canyon Oil Field, and Taylor Canyon Oil Field underscores the industrial significance of the Cuyama area during this period. In the north, the seasonally fluctuating Soda Lake sits at the base of the Temblor Range, while landmarks like Painted Rock and the high point of Caliente Mtn define the topography. Along the southern border, the Cuyama River carves a path through the valley, tracing the boundary between San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties.