1949 Map of Greenwood

About this map

The Middle Fork American River and North Fork American River cut through the landscape of the Gold Country, where the boundaries of Placer Co and El Dorado Co meet. This survey captures a post-war view of an area shaped by a century of hydraulic and hard-rock mining, evidenced by the numerous mining claims and infrastructure. Deep canyons separate high points like Brushy Mountain and Summit Hill, while the Georgetown Divide Ditch and a prominent Pipe Line illustrate the complex water management systems required to support local industry and settlements. At Spanish Dry Diggings and Greenwood, the map records established communities amidst a terrain marked by named bars and flats. Genealogists can identify family-named landmarks such as Butcher Ranch and Penobscot Farm, while the presence of the Centennial Mine, Grit Mine, and Sliger Mine provides a detailed look at the region's mineral legacy during the mid-20th century.