1964 Map of Friant

About this map

The San Joaquin River defines the landscape of this 1960s-era survey, where the massive Friant Dam holds back the waters of Millerton Lake. The settlement of Friant sits just below the dam, serving as a hub for water management and transit. This era highlights the sophisticated irrigation network supporting the Central Valley, specifically the Friant Kern Canal and the North Fork Canal. The Southern Pacific railroad line terminates near the river, signaling the importance of rail transport for both construction and agriculture in this foothills region. South of the dam, the terrain transitions into a more developed grid near Gordon, while the east is dominated by the elevations of Owens Mountain and the seasonal flows of Little Dry Creek. Geologists and local historians can trace the industrial footprint of the area through various mines and a Gravel Pit along the riverbanks.