1949 Map of Colfax

About this map

The Southern Pacific railroad corridor serves as the central artery for this mid-century look at the Sierra Nevada foothills, connecting mountain settlements between the Bear River and the North Fork American River. The map captures the significant transition from early Gold Rush foundations to modern infrastructure, locating the Illinoistown (Site) near the more prominent town of Colfax. Mining history is preserved through numerous dormant sites like the Rising Sun Mine and Black Oak Mine, while the Boardman Canal and various flumes trace the vital movement of water through this complex landscape. Smaller communities such as Applegate, Weimar, and New England Mills are shown with their local landmarks, including the Spring Garden Sch and a local sanatorium. High points like Colfax Hill and Big John Hill overlook a network of ravines and canyons, including Shirttail Canyon and Mexican Gulch.