1932 Map of East Elk Hills

About this map

Naval Petroleum Reserve No 1 dominates the southern landscape of this 1932 survey, reflecting the intensive energy development of the Elk Hills region during the interwar years. The terrain is sharply divided between the industrial petroleum uplands and the agricultural floor of the San Joaquin Valley to the north. A sophisticated network of water management features, including the Eightyfoot Ditch, West Side Canal, and the Main Drain, illustrates the transformation of the arid valley floor into managed ranch land. Cultural landmarks such as the Indian Burial Mound near the valley edge suggest a deep history of human occupation prior to the arrival of modern irrigation and industry. The presence of the Standard Oil Co Hay-Carmen Camp and various ranches like Poplar Grove Ranch and Old Headquarters Ranch highlights the dual economy of oil extraction and livestock that defined Kern County's growth in this era.