1897 Map of Tamalpais

About this map

The Marin Peninsula rises dramatically between the Pacific Ocean and the northern reaches of San Francisco Bay, dominated by the twin summits of Mt. Tamalpais. This 1897-based survey, corrected through 1940, reveals the early infrastructure of the Northwestern Pacific railroad as it links the bayside communities of San Anselmo, Larkspur, and Mill Valley. The topography illustrates the steep transition from the coastal drainage of Pine Gulch Creek and Bolinas Lagoon to the protected canyons of Muir Woods National Monument. Along the southern tip, the Fort Barry Military Reservation and Pt. Bonita guard the entrance to the Golden Gate, while the northern edge of San Francisco is visible with landmarks like Cliff House and the early layout of Golden Gate Park. The map captures a coastal landscape transitioning from Spanish land grants to established rail-served suburbs.