1961 Map of Winton

About this map

Castle Air Force Base dominates the southern landscape of this Central Valley survey, reflecting the significant military presence in Merced County during the mid-20th century. The settlement of Winton serves as a primary hub, characterized by a grid of streets like Olive Ave and Walnut Ave, and supported by the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe railroad line. The map illustrates a highly managed agricultural environment, where the Merced River is supplemented by an intricate network of irrigation features including the Main Canal, Reinero Drain, and various laterals. Smaller communities and rural landmarks such as Amsterdam and Hopeton appear alongside essential local institutions like Washington School and Hopeton Cemetery. The infrastructure reveals the era's focus on water moving from the river through features like the Siphon to support the surrounding orchards and fields.