1915 Map of Concord

About this map

Southern Pacific rail lines and early California ranchos define the landscape in this early twentieth-century survey of the East Bay. The map illustrates the transition from the large Mexican land grants, such as the Laguna De Los Palos Colorados Tract No. 2, to the growing towns of Concord, Walnut Creek, and Lafayette. The intricate topography of the San Leandro Hills and As Trampas Ridge is rendered in sharp detail, showing the deep canyons and peaks like Grizzly Peak and Bald Peak that overlook the burgeoning city of Oakland. Local historians will note the numerous small stops and settlements like Hookston, Saranap, and Meinert, many of which were tied to the rail corridor. The presence of rural landmarks such as the Redwood Inn and the Country Club reflects the early suburban and recreational development spreading into the valleys of San Ramon Creek and Arroyo del Hambre.