1918 Map of Snelling

About this map

Snelling serves as the focal point of this California Central Valley survey, situated along the northern banks of the Merced River where the valley floor begins its ascent into the foothills. The landscape is defined by its transition from agricultural lowlands to more varied terrain, marked by the courses of Dry Creek and Peaslee Creek. Transport and water management are central to the area's development during the early twentieth century, evidenced by the presence of the Yosemite Valley RR corridor and the intricate irrigation systems including the Hoffman Canal and Crocker Canal. Local life is anchored by small settlements and rural education sites such as Hopeton, Ingalsbe, and the Anderson School. The map captures a moment before modern highway expansion, showing the established path of the Coulterville Road and the distinct Stanislaus and Merced County boundary line.