1950 Map of Ritter

About this map

The confluence of the North Fork John Day River and the Middle Fork John Day River defines this mid-century portrait of central Oregon. The small settlement of Ritter serves as a local hub, featuring the Ritter Grange, the Ritter Sch, and a nearby Lumber Mill that points to the area's timber industry. Much of the eastern portion of the map is dominated by the Umatilla National Forest, where steep canyons like Bone Canyon and peaks such as Sugar Loaf Mtn overlook the river valleys. Local infrastructure is sparse but specific, noted by a Gaging Station on the river and isolated landmarks like Threemile School and Range School. The map captures a moment when rural life centered around these small schoolhouses and the river system, before modern development significantly altered the footprint of the high desert landscape.