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1943 Map of Santa Catalina West

Name: 1943 Topographic Map of Santa Catalina West
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1980
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1980

About this map

Silver Peak dominates the central ridgeline of the rugged western end of the island, a terrain defined by steep coastal cliffs and deep coves. The 1943 field data captures a landscape focused on maritime navigation and small coastal outposts, including the Catalina Island West End Light at Lands End. Along the northern shore, isolated landings such as Parsons Landing and Johnsons Landing suggest a reliance on sea-based transport before modern road development.

Revisions from the 1970s layered onto the original topography highlight the development of recreational sites like the Girl Scouts Camp at Emerald Bay. The map reveals the dramatic contrast between the exposed Pacific side, with features like Iron Bound Bay and Ribbon Rock, and the more sheltered northern waters of the San Pedro Channel. Notable landmarks like Mt Torquemada and the narrow isthmus near Cherry Valley illustrate the geological isolation that shaped this portion of the island's history.