1962 Map of Melones Dam

About this map

Melones Reservoir and Tulloch Lake dominate this 1960s landscape, illustrating the mid-century transformation of the Stanislaus River for water resource management. The geography is defined by significant elevation changes, from the depths of Iron Canyon to peaks like Lightner Peak and the prominent plateau of Table Mountain. This era shows a transition in land use, where older extractive industries like the Lightner Mine and Valencia Mine are surrounded by modern infrastructure, including the Melones Dam and Tulloch Dam. Historical river crossings are remembered at the Central Ferry (Site) and the Byrne Ferry Historical Monument, while an old railroad grade traces earlier transit patterns through the canyon walls. The rugged boundary between Calaveras and Tuolumne counties follows the river's original course, winding past family-named sites like Wagner Ranch.