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1943 Map of Emerald Mtn

Name: 1943 Topographic Map of Emerald Mtn
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1966
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1966

About this map

The high sierra of the Sequoia National Forest in Kern County defines this 1940s landscape, where mining operations and isolated ranching outposts are scattered across the mountainous terrain. The old mining town of Claraville sits at the head of French Gulch, supported by several nearby workings including the Gwynne Mine and St John Mine. The map details a rugged economy of remote cattle ranches and family-named landmarks like Benner Ranch, Cannon Ranch, and the Casa de los Cerritos.

Water sources are central to life here, from the Yates Hot Spring to the seasonal drainages of Caliente Creek and Rancheria Creek. For local historians and genealogists, the inclusion of specific sites like Twin Oaks, Loraine, and the Eagles Nest peak provides a clear view of the interior Kern County backcountry before modern development, marking the trails and dirt roads that connected these high-altitude settlements.