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1950 Map of Palomar Observatory

Name: 1950 Topographic Map of Palomar Observatory
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1950
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1950

About this map

Palomar Observatory dominates the high elevations of Palomar Mountain, providing a detailed look at the scientific infrastructure of the mid-century, including the famed Hale Telescope (200-inch). The landscape transitions from these astronomical heights down into the La Jolla Indian Reservation and the broad pastoral reaches of Mendenhall Valley.

Settlement patterns in the late 1940s are characterized by mountain camps and small clusters like Crestline Camp, Palomar Park, and La Jolla Amago. The presence of the Maple Lode Mine (Inactive) and Ware Mine reflects earlier prospecting efforts in the north, while the southern reaches follow the course of the San Luis Rey River as it winds toward Lake Henshaw. Numerous family-named landmarks such as Pedley Valley and Dyche Valley suggest the region's agricultural and homesteading heritage within the Cleveland National Forest.