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1955 Map of Laurel

Name: 1955 Topographic Map of Laurel
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1956
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1956

About this map

The San Andreas Rift Zone cuts a distinct path through the Santa Cruz Mts in this mid-century survey, defining the complex landscape of the Soquel Augmentation. The map captures a period of transition for several mountain communities, documenting the infrastructure of settlements like Laurel, Glenwood, and Skyland. Local transport and industry are anchored by the winding Old San Jose Road and the remnants of the Southern Pacific RR (Abandoned), which once served the timber and agricultural needs of the region.

Education and community centers are well-represented, including the Bethany Bible College and St Marys Girls Camp, alongside several decommissioned facilities such as the Glenwood School (Abandoned) and Highland School (Abandoned). The presence of the Olive Spring Quarry and numerous family-named landmarks like Redwood Lodge and Spanish Ranch provides a look at the mid-century economy and land use in the Santa Cruz Mountains.