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1947 Map of Natividad

Name: 1947 Topographic Map of Natividad
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1963
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1963

About this map

The Gabilan Range rises sharply above the agricultural plains of Monterey County in this 1947 road data survey, illustrating a landscape defined by ranching, early aviation, and military history. Small settlements like Natividad and Alisal anchor a region marked by extensive land grant boundaries, such as Sausal and Alisal (Bernal). The presence of the Southern Pacific railroad and historic thoroughfares like Old Stage Road and Natividad Road highlight the area's role as a transportation corridor between the mountains and the valley floor.

Post-war transitions are evident at the Salinas Air Base (Abandoned) and the Salinas Municipal Airport, reflecting the era's shift from military mobilization to civil aviation. Educational and defense footprints are further established by Hartnell College, a Rifle Range, and Camp McCallum, while the drainage patterns of Gabilan Creek and Alisal Slough define the lower terrain. This map captures a unique moment where traditional ranching life met the expanding infrastructure of mid-century California.