1958 Map of Ely

About this map

Mining and recreation define the landscape of Ely during the mid-to-late 20th century, where the industrial infrastructure of the Nevada Northern railroad meets the rugged slopes of the Humboldt National Forest. In the northeast, the city is flanked by historic extraction sites including the Farnsworth-Ely Metal Mine, Quincy Mine, and Black Spot Mine, while the Ely Colony Indian Reservation sits adjacent to the urban center. To the west and south, the terrain rises toward the Ward Mountain Recreation Area, featuring the Ward Mtn Ski Hill and numerous water sources such as Murry Springs and Riepe Spring. The presence of the Bell Shaft and Minoletti Shaft near the town core underscores the area's deep-rooted copper and silver mining heritage, while the Landmark Letters on the hillside overlooking the city provide a distinct local cultural marker.