1942 Map of San Antonio

About this map

San Andreas Rift Zone geology dominates this landscape, where the high peaks of the San Gabriel Mountains meet the edge of the Mojave Desert. The mountain community of Wrightwood sits nestled in the Swarthout Valley, while the desert floor to the north is dotted with early 20th-century outposts such as Smith Ranch, Kunzel Ranch, and Phelan. This 1940s-era data reveals a remote network of trails and roads providing access to the rugged heights of Mt San Antonio (Old Baldy) via the Devils Backbone. Industrial history is represented by the Big Horn Mine near Mine Gulch, while scientific interest is marked by the Smithsonian Observatory. The map also captures several recreation sites, including Jackson Lake and the Big Pines Recreation Area, serving as early escapes for those traveling through Cajon Canyon or along Cajon Road.