1947 Map of Rosamond Lake

About this map

Rosamond Lake dominates this 1947 survey, appearing as a massive dry lake bed within the expanse of the Mojave Desert. Compiled from 1946 aerial photography by the Army Map Service, the map documents a landscape defined by its grid-like road system and sparse water resources. The southern portion of the sheet shows the early development of the Antelope Valley road network, featuring long, straight corridors such as Avenue C, Avenue D, and Redman Road. Several small reservoirs are scattered across the desert floor, indicating the critical nature of water management in this arid environment. The map captures the area just after World War II, showing a mix of established section lines and emerging rural infrastructure that would eventually support the growth of Los Angeles County's northern reaches.