1956 Map of Tumey Hills

About this map

The Panoche Hills and Tumey Hills dominate this mid-century topographical survey, showcasing a landscape defined by seasonal watercourses and early resource extraction. The boundary between Fresno and San Benito counties cuts diagonally across the terrain, passing through the Griswold Hills to the west. Evidence of human activity is sparse but telling, marked by multiple Oil Wells and a Prospect site, indicating a period of active exploration. Panoche Creek winds through the northern portion of the map, supported by a Gaging Station used for monitoring water flow in this arid environment. The presence of a Jeep Trail and small Reservoir suggest a working landscape utilized for ranching or technical surveys. This 1956 field check, overseen by Director of Water Resources Harvey O. Banks, provides an exact look at the topographical drainage patterns of Silver Creek and Tumey Gulch before significant modern development altered the region.