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1915 Map of Priest Valley

Name: 1915 Topographic Map of Priest Valley
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1943
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1943

About this map

New Idria serves as a focal point for mining activity in this corner of the California Coast Ranges, where cinnabar and coal deposits drew early industrial interest. The map documents a landscape defined by isolated ranching outposts and a network of one-room schoolhouses, such as Peachtree School and Hernandez School, which anchored small rural communities across the Mustang Ridge and San Lorenzo highlands. Along the southwestern edge, the Southern Pacific (Coast Line) railroad follows the Salinas River, facilitating the growth of San Ardo and San Lucas.

Inland, the terrain is marked by significant topographical landmarks like San Benito Mtn and the unique rock formations of The Pinnacles. Local history is preserved through named features like Fresno Hot Springs and Laguna Ranch, reflecting the era's reliance on natural springs and large land holdings. The presence of the Monterey Coal Mine and Picacho Mine highlights the diverse mineral wealth sought in the Diablo Range during the early twentieth century.