1953 Map of Nebo

About this map

The Calico Mountains dominate the northeastern landscape of this desert corridor, where early 1950s mining activity is evidenced by the Silver Bow Mine and Burcham Mine. The area serves as a critical transportation and military hub, centered around the Marine Corps Supply Center and its Nebo Area. This logistical importance is reinforced by the dual presence of the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe and Union Pacific railroads, which parallel the Mojave River valley. To the west, the growing footprint of Barstow includes mid-century cultural markers like a Drive-in Theater. The map also traces the transition of regional travel, showing both the historic U.S. 66 and the development of Interstate 40. Local topography is punctuated by prominent peaks including Lead Mountain and Elephant Mountain, while the San Bernardino Meridian provides a primary surveying reference point for the region.