1943 Map of New Idria

About this map

The mercury-rich mining district around New Idria Idria PO dominates this 1943 survey, conducted just as the nation's wartime industrial demand was peaking. The map meticulously documents the rugged intersection of the San Benito and Monterey county lines, showcasing a landscape defined by isolated ranches and numerous active or significant mineral claims. Among these are the Spanish Mine, the Picacho Mine, and the Aurora Mine, reflecting the area's importance as a premier source of quicksilver. The terrain is marked by significant peaks such as San Benito Mtn and Santa Rita Pk, which overlook the headwaters of the San Benito River and Clear Creek. The inclusion of the John Ashurst Ranch and Jones Ranch provides a window into the pastoral activities that persisted alongside the industrial extraction of the Tumey and Griswold Hills.