Loading map...

1954 Map of Stratford

Name: 1954 Topographic Map of Stratford
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1957
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1957

About this map

Tulare Lake Bed dominates the southern landscape of this mid-century survey, revealing an intricate network of water management in Kings County. The town of Stratford serves as a central hub, where the Southern Pacific railroad meets a grid of agricultural avenues and extensive irrigation works. The hydraulic engineering required to farm this former lake territory is evident in the complex system of the Main Canal, Stratford Canal, and the North Central Levee, which protect the low-lying fields.

Along the winding course of the Kings River, local infrastructure like Empire Weir No 2 and a Landing Strip show the intersection of natural waterways and modern development. Social and educational centers are clearly marked, including the Central Union School and the Central Union Grange, while the presence of Rancheria Santa Rosa adds a layer of cultural history to the northeast near Mussel Slough.