1958 Map of Freighter Gap

About this map

The Continental Divide winds through this high-altitude landscape in Sweetwater County, marking the watershed between the Pacific and Atlantic basins. This 1958 field survey reveals an arid, corrugated terrain characterized by the Jack Morrow Hills and the prominent Oregon Buttes in the north. The presence of the Stage Road and landmarks like Rock Cabin Spring and Freighter Gap underscore the historical importance of this corridor for transcontinental travel before modern highways. Water sources are scarce, represented by intermittent drainages such as Jack Morrow Creek, Alkali Wash, and Bush Creek. The map documents a sparsely settled region defined by its geology and the early tracks of pioneers and freighters, with family-named features like Kinch McKinney Hill providing clues to local land use during the mid-century era.