1955 Map of Silver Bell Mine

About this map

Silver Bell Mine and the surrounding high desert of San Bernardino County are captured here during a mid-century period of mineral prospecting and military expansion. This portion of the Lava Bed Mountains shows a landscape defined by volcanic geology and scarce water sources like Sheep Spr. Evidence of early human activity is noted at Indian Petroglyphs, while modern industry is represented by Prospect X, various Prospects, and a Cinder Pit. The southern portion of the map is dominated by the Marine Corps Training Center, reflecting the increasing federal use of the California desert following the second World War. Technical surveyors utilized high points such as VABM 4155 Bess along Iron Ridge to map the complex terrain of Box Canyon and the expansive volcanic flows simply labeled as Lava.