1948 Map of Hammett

About this map

Snake River dominates this mid-century landscape, carving a deep canyon that separates Elmore and Owyhee Counties. The settlement of Hammett serves as a vital transit point where the Union Pacific railroad and a branch of the Old Oregon Trail converge. Irrigation infrastructure is essential to the local economy, evidenced by labels for an Artesian Well, a Siphon, and Simpkins Spr, which support agricultural life on the dry plateaus above the river valley. Down in the canyon, the river channel is divided by large landmasses such as Schoffs Island and Sparlin Island. Historical river crossings are visible but fading, notably at the Medbury Fy (Aban'd), while numerous creeks like Sailor Creek and Cold Springs Creek drain the surrounding heights. This survey illustrates the vital relationship between the desert landscape and the water engineering required to sustain Idaho's rail-and-river corridor.