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1955 Map of Kelso

Name: 1955 Topographic Map of Kelso
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1957
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1957

About this map

Union Pacific rail operations anchor this mid-century desert landscape, with the community of Kelso serving as a vital hub complete with a Water Tank and several Wells. The rail line traces a path through the valley floor, connecting several smaller stops and sidings including Hayden, Dawes, Elora, and Chase. Away from the tracks, the terrain is defined by the volcanic textures of the Lava fields and the prominent heights of Kelso Peak and the Marl Mountains.

Historic routes and watering points reveal the area's older traveler history, most notably the Old Government Road passing near Marl Spring. Water remains the most precious resource on the map, marked by scattered locations such as Rainbow Wells, Eightmile Tank, and Tough Nut Spring. Mining activity is evident through various Shafts and Prospects tucked into the canyons of the Providence Mts and near Globe Canyon, suggesting a period of mineral exploration that parallels the desert rail economy.