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1954 Map of Novato

Name: 1954 Topographic Map of Novato
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1981
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1981

About this map

Novato and its surrounding valleys are captured here during a period of significant mid-century growth in Marin County. The landscape is defined by the Northwestern Pacific railroad corridor and the Redwood Highway, which together shaped the development of communities like Ignacio, Black Point, and Santa Venetia. Purple overlays on this map highlight the rapid suburban expansion into areas like Novato Heights and Rafael Village that occurred by the late 1970s.

Beyond the residential centers, the map documents important social and medical institutions, including the Marin County Hospital, Terwilliger Hospital, and the Arequipa Sanatorium. The rugged terrain of San Pedro Ridge and landmarks like Big Rock and Loma Alta provide a constant backdrop to the evolving valley floors. Educational history is well-represented through numerous local campuses, such as the Olive Street School and St Vincent School, reflecting the community's mid-century needs.