1954 Map of Litchfield

About this map

Shaffer Mountain dominates the central landscape of this mid-century Lassen County survey, standing between the arid Mud Flat and the expansive northern reaches of Honey Lake. The settlement pattern follows the Southern Pacific rail line and the Susan River, which feeds into a complex network of irrigation features including the Eagle Lake Ditch and Hartson Slough. Local history is visible in the varied land uses of the era, from the waterfowl conservation efforts at the Wildfowl Management Area (Dakin Unit) to the ancient Petroglyphs near Petes Creek. Small rural communities like Litchfield, Standish, and Wendel serve as anchors for the surrounding ranching and transit economy. The map also records early educational and social landmarks, such as the Lake School near Buntingville and a Cem south of Standish, providing a clear view of the region's human geography before modern development.