1953 Map of Pasadena

About this map

The San Gabriel Mountains rise sharply above the expanding suburbs of the Los Angeles basin in this mid-century survey. While the northern edge is dominated by the Angeles National Forest and deep canyons like Millard Canyon, the valley floor shows a densely developed grid of post-war growth. Landmarks of science and culture are prominent, including the Calif Institute of Technology and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The Arroyo Seco serves as a central geographical spine, home to the Rose Bowl and Brookside Park. In Pasadena and Altadena, the map reveals a sophisticated network of private academies and colleges, such as the Mt Lowe Military Academy and Occidental College, illustrating the area's established role as a center for education and research. The residential patterns of Flintridge, La CañAda, and Eagle Rock follow the contours of the San Rafael Hills, showing how topography dictated the layout of these hillside communities.