1958 Map of Vya

About this map

Sheldon National Antelope Refuge dominates the northwestern corner of this landscape, where the high desert terrain of the Charles Sheldon Antelope Range meets the Guano Valley. This mid-century survey reveals a territory defined by isolated ranches and mineral extraction, with the U S Naval Gunnery Range occupying a significant portion of the Black Rock Desert. Local industry is evidenced by specialized operations like the Rainbow Ridge Opal Mine and several gold and silver prospects, including the Antelope Mine and Cherry Gulch Mine. Transport through this sparse region relies on State Hwy 8A and State Hwy 34, connecting remote outposts such as Vya and Denio. The map captures a high-desert economy reliant on vast grazing lands, as seen in the numerous family-named landmarks like Duffurena Ranch and Quinn River Crossing Ranch.