Loading map...

1886 Map of Saint Thomas

Name: 1886 Topographic Map of Saint Thomas
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1916
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1916

About this map

Saint Thomas and Saint Joseph serve as the primary hubs of this high-desert landscape in the late 19th century, years before the waters of Lake Mead would fundamentally alter the region's geography. The map documents a critical transition point for pioneers and traders, anchored by the Virgin River and the Colorado River. Transportation relies on established landmarks like the Old California Trail and river crossings such as Stone Ferry and Scanlon Ferry.

Settlements like Old Overton and Old Callville reflect the early efforts to establish agricultural and freighting communities in what was then part of Lincoln County. The terrain is defined by extreme relief, from the Muddy Mountains and Muddy Peak to the strategic depths of Boulder Canyon. Isolated resources like the Salt Mine and numerous springs, including Bitter Spring and Cane Spring, highlight the essential requirements for survival and commerce in this arid frontier.