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1957 Map of Sparta

Name: 1957 Topographic Map of Sparta
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1966
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1966

About this map

Mining operations and remote homesteads define the high country of the Whitman National Forest in this mid-century survey. The settlement of Sparta sits near the center of a landscape carved by deep gulches and numerous lode mines, including the Sanger Mine, Poorman Mine, and Amalgamated Mine. These workings are concentrated along the drainages of Eagle Creek and Goose Creek, illustrating the intense geological exploration that shaped Baker County's history.

Transportation through this difficult terrain is marked by the Baker-Homestead Highway, which follows the curves of the Powder River. Along its banks, researchers can find Colvard Station and several family-named landmarks like Goslin Corral. Water resources, essential for both mining and livestock, are represented by the Balm Creek Reservoir and isolated outposts such as the Lily White Guard Sta, providing a detailed look at the infrastructure required to manage these mountain lands.