1956 Map of Harris Ranch

About this map

Large-scale agricultural operations and irrigation infrastructure define this Central Valley landscape, centered around the Harris Ranch and the Thomas Ranch during the mid-20th century. The arrival of the massive California Aqueduct, shown here in its late 1960s revision state, intersects a grid of namesake roads including Cadillac Avenue, Oakland Avenue, and Packard Avenue. The map documents the industrial backbone of the local economy through features like a Cotton Gin, a Pumping Plant, and multiple Labor Camp sites, reflecting the organized labor and water management required for regional farming. Localized features like the Landing Strip near the Benson-Davis Ranch and the extensive Levee system illustrate the functional layout of these sprawling landholdings in Fresno County.