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1954 Map of Pearsoll Peak

Name: 1954 Topographic Map of Pearsoll Peak
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1956
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1956

About this map

The high peaks and deep river canyons of the Siskiyou National Forest define this terrain along the border of Josephine and Curry Counties. This mid-1950s survey documents a landscape focused on resource extraction and fire management, with numerous active and former mining sites like the Old Glory Mine, Chrome King Mine, and Uncle Sam Mine scattered through the steep drainages. The Illinois River winds through the center of the quadrangle, flanked by isolated flats and bars such as Oak Flat and Panther Bar that provided rare level ground for small holdings like the Weaver Ranch.

Strategic fire lookouts at Silver Peak Lookout and Pearsoll Peak Lookout overlook the watersheds of Briggs Creek and Silver Creek. This era shows a network of trails, including the Bald Mountain Trail and Red Dog Trail, which served as the primary conduits through the backcountry before modern road expansion. The presence of the Store Gulch Guard Sta and Pine Creek Shelter indicates the ongoing administrative presence of the Forest Service in this demanding environment.