1953 Map of Casa Diablo Mtn

About this map

Lake Crowley and the Owens River define this mid-century landscape of the Sierra Nevada's eastern slopes. The 1953 field survey documents a transition from the industrial legacy of mining to a burgeoning recreation and ranching economy. Significant mining operations are scattered across the high desert ridges, including the Casa Diablo Mine, Banner Mine, and Wildrose Mine. The map captures the presence of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power's infrastructure, notably the Long Valley Dam and the Power House at the mouth of the Owens River Gorge. Settlement is focused along the highway corridor at Toms Place and near the lake at North Landing and South Landing. This era represents a period before major development, when ranching sites like Sky Meadow Ranch and government outposts like the Rock Creek Guard Sta served as primary landmarks within the Inyo National Forest.