1952 Map of Patterson Mountain

About this map

Patterson Mountain and the deep canyons of the Kings River define this 1952 topographic study of the High Sierra foothills. The map documents a critical period of infrastructure development in Fresno County, specifically highlighting the Pine Flat Reservoir area where blue hatching indicates land soon to be submerged by the rising waters. This transition from a river-run landscape to a managed reservoir is marked by the presence of river-level features like Kirch Flat and the State Fish Hatchery. Higher in the timbered slopes, the presence of the Sierra National Forest and Sequoia Nat For is punctuated by lookouts and guard stations. Early resource extraction and management are visible through labels for Rancheria (Site) and Sawmill Flat (Site), while Balch Camp serves as a hub for the region's hydro-electric and forestry operations.