1927 Map of Parachute Creek

About this map

The Naval Oil Shale Reserve dominates this landscape, reflecting a 1920s focus on domestic energy security along the high elevations of the Book Plateau. James Duce, the State Inspector of Oils, is noted in the margin of this 1925 survey, which captures the region during an early era of shale oil experimentation. Industrial outposts like Columbia Shale Camp and Washington Shale Camp are established near the deep incisions of Parachute Creek, providing a rare look at the infrastructure of these remote operations. Away from the camps, the map reveals a rugged ranching and pioneer geography, marked by isolated structures such as Summers Cabin and Crawford Cabins. The local community is anchored by the Granlee School, while a network of primitive routes like the Circle Bar Trail and Eaton Trail provided the only access through the steep gulches and canyons.