1958 Map of Palmdale

About this map

Air Force Plant 42 dominates the northern landscape of this survey, marking a period of significant military and aerospace expansion in the Antelope Valley. The town of Palmdale is shown during its mid-century growth, centered around the Southern Pacific rail line and the Sierra Highway. The map reveals the critical intersection of infrastructure and geology, with the San Andreas Rift Zone slicing across the southern portion of the quadrangle. This tectonic feature is closely shadowed by the Pearblossom Highway and old water routes like the Old Fort Tejon Road. Local life is visible through the presence of the Palmdale Cemetery, Manzanita School, and Palmdale High School. Smaller settlements such as Harold and Pearland are situated near vital water sources like Lake Palmdale and the ephemeral Barrel Springs.