1955 Map of Morongo Valley

About this map

Morongo Valley serves as a central point in this 1950s survey of the high desert and mountains at the junction of the San Bernardino National Forest and the San Gorgonio Wild Area. The map details a landscape transition from high mountain peaks like Mineral Mtn and Kitching Peak down to the arid basins of Antelope Wash. Early industry is evident in the northern reaches, where the Rose Mine and Monte Cristo Mine are plotted near Rattlesnake Canyon. A fascinating variety of remote outposts and settlements are visible, from the established western-style Pioneertown to the more secluded Tayles Hidden Acres and The Pipes Ranch. The map also captures several springs and water sources vital to this environment, such as Sherman Shady Spring and Leopard Spring, alongside the path of the Twentynine Palms Highway.