1966 Map of Ellison

About this map

The Humboldt River and Humboldt Reese River dominate this high-desert basin near the border of Humboldt and Lander Counties. In the mid-1960s, the landscape was defined by the intersection of natural waterways and major transportation corridors, with both the Western Pacific and Southern Pacific railroads cutting through the valley. Small ranching operations such as the D-L Ranch and 25 Ranch are established near the riverbanks, while the small settlement of Ellison sits along the rail line. The presence of several sloughs, including Herrin Slough and McIntyre Slough, indicates the seasonally shifting waters of this drainage system. Localized industry is evident in the Gravel Pits and a Gravel Pit located in the southwestern reaches, while hydrologic monitoring is marked by a Gaging Station on the river, reflecting the importance of water management in this arid cattle-ranching region.