1948 Map of Cypress Mountain

About this map

The high peaks of the Santa Lucia Range dominate this late-1940s landscape, where mining interests and cattle ranching once carved out a living in the steep coastal mountains. The Oceanic Mine stands as a prominent industrial landmark on the western slopes, reflecting the region's mercury-mining legacy. Downslope, the drainage systems of Santa Rosa Creek and Villa Creek define the natural boundaries and migration routes through the valleys. Large landholdings are evidenced by the expansive Santa Rosa Indefinite Boundary and the San Geronimo area. These topographic details, captured via aerial photography by the Army Map Service, show the primitive state of the Cambria Road and Paso Robles Road as they navigate the ridges near Cypress Mountain and the imposing Black Mountain.