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1964 Map of Rock Lake

Name: 1964 Topographic Map of Rock Lake
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1965
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1965

About this map

Rock Lake dominates this mid-century landscape in Whitman County, its elongated form cutting through the coulees and scablands of the region. The Chicago Milwaukee St Paul and Pacific railroad traces the eastern and western shores, providing a critical transport artery for remote outposts like Lavista and the recreational area at Johnsons Beach. The presence of small settlements such as Imbler and Wagner, along with the Eaton Cem near the western edge, suggests the long-standing agricultural and local family ties to this corner of the Palouse.

A network of seasonal water bodies and specialized landscape features surround the lake, including Alkali Lake, Tule Lake, and the aptly named Slaughter Pen Bay. Significant infrastructure for the grain-heavy economy is noted at Storage Bins, while natural landmarks like Castle Rock and the winding Kamiache Creek provide orientation within the undulating terrain. This survey provides a clear view of the area's mid-1960s configuration before modern changes, documenting both the industrial rail presence and the isolated farmsteads.