1961 Map of Junipero Serra

About this map

Junipero Serra Peak, the highest point in the Santa Lucia Range, anchors this rugged terrain where the Los Padres National Forest meets the northern reaches of the Hunter Liggett Military Reservation. The map details a complex landscape of deep canyons and seasonal waterways like Arroyo Seco and the San Antonio River. Human settlement is sparse and largely ranch-based, evidenced by the Herbert Ranch, Leigh Ranch, and Shelter Rock Ranch tucked along the drainage of Reliz Creek. A significant network of fire management and backcountry infrastructure is visible, including the Pinyon Peak Lookout Tower, the Indian Ranger Sta, and the remote settlement known as The Indians. The presence of the Telephone Road traversing the ridges suggests the vital communication lines required to manage this wildfire-prone wilderness during the mid-20th century.