1948 Map of Glenns Ferry

About this map

Three Island Crossing serves as a focal point on the Snake River in this mid-century survey, marking a legendary river crossing point along the historic Oregon Trail. The map documents the early infrastructure of Elmore and Owyhee Counties, where the Union Pacific Main Line follows the northern riverbank, paralleled by a network of early canals and siphons including the Bennett Canal. This irrigation system supported local agricultural interests like the McGinness Ranch, while remnants of earlier transport, such as Medbury Ferry (Aband), illustrate the transition from river ferries to rail dominance. The landscape is deeply incised by drainages such as Sailor Creek and Deadman Creek, which drop toward the river through rugged breaks. Significant landmarks for local history include the town of Glenns Ferry, the landing at Hammett, and several family-named wells and gulches that define the high desert plains.