Map of Public Surveys in California to accompany Report of Surveyor General

Large map showing the progress of federal surveying in California.

This map of California presents a fascinating snapshot from the mid-19th century. Though it’s purpose was to convey the progress of ongoing government surveys throughout the state, small details provide a wealth of contemporary information.

Spanish missions, garrisoned forts, Native American camps, and huge swathes of ‘wild’ territory reflect the American frontier, while completed surveys around San Francisco harbor and through the Central Valley highlight recent growth since gold was discovered in 1848. (Note that the ‘Golden Gate’ long precedes the famous bridge.)

The image also provides a vivid sense of the rugged terrain. Topography is shown in hachure and prominent peaks and mountain ranges are individually labeled.

The map was prepared by the U.S. General Land Office under the authority of surveyor general John Hays and issued in his annual report of 1855. Lithographed in Baltimore by A. Hoen & Co.