1957 Map of Swan Lake

About this map

The Sprague River winds through the northeast corner of this Klamath County landscape, defining the northern edge of the Sprague River Valley just as the Winema National Forest extends across the high timberland of the Wheeler Plateau. In the lower elevations, the transition from forest to the pastoral Swan Lake Valley is marked by a concentration of ranching history and local landmarks. This mid-century survey illustrates the rural infrastructure of the era, from the Oregon Technical Institute at the foot of Hogback Mountain to the remote Xenia stop. Family heritage is deeply rooted here, preserved in sites like Gabriel Cem and Hibbert Cem, alongside numerous working lands such as Coleman Ranch and Drews Ranch. The Oregon California and Eastern RR cuts through the eastern valleys, highlighting the importance of rail transport to the local timber and agricultural economy.