1942 Map of Santa Maria

About this map

Santa Maria and its surrounding agricultural and industrial landscape are captured here during World War II, showing a region defined by the Santa Maria River and the expanding Santa Maria Valley Oil Field. The grid of the city contrasts with the winding paths of the Cuyama River and Sisquoc River to the east. Transportation is a primary theme, with the Valley Railroad threading through the valley and the early alignment of 101 connecting Suey Park to southern settlements. The terrain transitions from the alluvial plains of the Santa Maria Valley into the high elevations of the Solomon Hills, where Mt Solomon Lookout and Bicknell sit amid a complex network of canyons like Graciosa Canyon and Pine Canyon. Local civic life is evidenced by country schools such as Blochman Sch and the community grounds at Waller Grove County Park.