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1891 Map of Chico

Name: 1891 Topographic Map of Chico
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1891
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1891

About this map

Chico and the surrounding agricultural and timber lands of Butte and Tehama counties appear here during a period of significant late-nineteenth-century development. The Southern Pacific Railroad bisects the valley floor, connecting settlements like Nord, Durham, and Nelson. Along the Sacramento River, numerous riverfront locations such as Chico Landing, Dayton Landing, and Sidd Landing indicate the continuing importance of waterborne transport and trade.

Upland from the valley, the terrain transitions into a complex network of canyons and ridges defined by Butte Creek and the West Branch Feather River. This higher ground is dotted with early industry, including Keefers Old Mill, Hipps Mill, and the Lucretia Mine. Established mountain communities like Magalia, Paradise, and Lovelock are linked by historic routes such as the Humboldt Road and the L. S. Trail, reflecting the era's reliance on both rail and rugged wagon roads to support the region's milling and mining operations.