1955 Map of Felton

About this map

The San Lorenzo River valley serves as the central artery for this mountainous region of the Santa Cruz Mountains, where dense redwood groves meet mid-century residential growth. Communities like Ben Lomond and Boulder Creek follow the river's winding path, while the southern portion of the map is dominated by the sprawling Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. The landscape is a complex network of steep ridges like Ben Lomond Mountain and narrow gulches, such as Lockhart Gulch and Gold Gulch, revealing an area defined by its timber heritage and emerging recreational appeal. Notable local landmarks include educational centers like Alba Sch and the San Lorenzo Valley High School, alongside established camps such as Mount Hermon and Camp Wasibo. The presence of the Southern Pacific railroad line and various quarries and sand pits indicates the continuing industrial utility of the terrain during this era of suburban expansion.