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1954 Map of Soquel

Name: 1954 Topographic Map of Soquel
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1994
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1994

About this map

Soquel Cove and the northern arc of Monterey Bay define the character of this mid-century coastal survey. The map details the transition of the Santa Cruz coastline from an industrial and agricultural landscape toward a residential and recreational corridor. Transit is dominated by the Southern Pacific rail line and Cliff Drive, which connect the established settlements of Santa Cruz, Capitola, and Aptos. Genealogy researchers will find significant value in the documentation of several local burial grounds, including Soquel Cem and Holy Cross Cem.

The landscape shows traces of early industry like the Porter Tannery alongside emerging educational landmarks such as Cabrillo College. Coastal lagoons like Schwan Lagoon and Corcoran Lagoon remain prominent features between the developing neighborhoods. The map also records the mid-century social landscape, from the Drive-in Theatre near Soquel to the designated recreation areas at New Brighton State Beach and Seacliff State Beach.