Geography – Notes

The 1785 Land Ordinance provided that all federal land would be surveyed into townships six miles square. Townships are subdivided into 36 one-mile-square sections. Sections can be further subdivided into quarter sections, quarter-quarter sections, or irregular government lots. Each township is identified with a township and range designation. Township designations indicate the location north or south of the baseline, and range designations indicate east or west of the Principal Meridian. A meridian is an imaginary line running north to south.

1861 Central Pacific Railroad is incorporated.

1862 President Abraham Lincoln signed the Pacific Railway Act, a law that authorizes the federal government to give land grants and loans to aid construction of the Central Pacific Railroad as the Western part of the Transcontinental Railroad and the Union Pacific as the Eastern part.

1863 Central Pacific begins construction at Sacramento.

1864 The United States Congress passes the Pacific Railway Act of 1864, which doubles the land grant to 20 alternate sections per mile, with a 20 mile checkerboard corridor on each side of the right-of-way.

1865 The Southern Pacific Railroad Company is incorporated.

1865 Central Pacific Railroad establishes a Land Department in Sacramento. Benjamin B. Redding, former mayor of Sacramento, was chosen to lead to design and manage the new organization.

1866 The Pacific Railway Act is amended to allow a railroad to select lands outside of the land grant area in exchange for unavailable land grant land.

1866 The federal government gives Southern Pacific Railroad a land grant to complete the western section of the Atlantic & Pacific line through California via Mojave to Needles.

1867 First land patent is issued to the Central Pacific Railroad by the federal government.

1868 September 25: The Central Pacific Railway owners acquire control of the Southern Pacific Railroad.

1869 The California & Oregon Railroad receives a federal land grant to build a line northward from Davis to connect to the Oregon & California Railroad at the California and Oregon border.

1869 The Central Pacific Railroad begins operating the California & Oregon Railroad.

1869 The Golden Spike ceremony held at Promontory, Utah, marks the completion of the transcontinental railroad between Sacramento, California and Omaha, Nebraska.

1870 California & Oregon Railroad is consolidated with the Central Pacific Railroad, and becomes a branch line of the Central Pacific Railroad.

1871 The federal government gives the Southern Pacific Railroad land grants and loans, allowing it to build to meet the Texas & Pacific at Yuma, California and build from Los Angeles to Colton, California.

1875 The Southern Pacific Railroad opens a land agency in San Francisco. 1876 Jerome Madden, Benjamin Redding’s assistant, became the land agent for Southern Pacific.

1886 Southern Pacific Company assumes control of the Oregon & California Railroad.

1899 The Central Pacific Railroad is reorganized as the Central Pacific Railway in order to pay off its federal debt.

1912 The Southern Pacific Company transfers some of its remaining land assets to Southern Pacific Land Company.

1916 Oregon & California grant lands are returned to the Federal Government.

1927 Southern Pacific purchases the Oregon & California Railroad.

1984 The Southern Pacific Company merges with Santa Fe Industries, parent company of the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway, to form Santa Fe Southern Pacific Corporation (SPSF).

1985 The Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) denies permission for the railroad operations to merge.

1986 Appeal of the ICC ruling fails.

1986 The renamed holding company, the Santa Fe Pacific Corporation, retains all of the non-rail interests of both companies except one. All of the Southern Pacific Railroad California real estate holdings are transferred to a new holding company, Catellus Development Corporation.

1996 The Southern Pacific Railroad is acquired by Union Pacific Railroad and its operations cease.

2005 Catellus Development Corporation is merged into ProLogis, another land development company based in San Francisco. ProLogis remains one of the largest real estate holders in California.

California State Railroad Museum Library and Archives
https://oac.cdlib.org/institutions/California+State+Railroad+Museum+Library+and+Archives

Victor Valley Developers

Who was Penn Philips, Hesperia, Ca.

Penn Phillips was a real estate developer known for his work in various parts of the United States, including Hesperia, California. Born M. Penn Phillips, he was a prominent figure in the mid-20th century, recognized for developing planned communities. In Hesperia, he was instrumental in transforming the area from a rural community into a more developed suburban area. Phillips was known for his aggressive marketing strategies and development projects that often included building infrastructure and amenities to attract residents and investors to the areas he developed. His impact on Hesperia and other towns he developed is still evident today in the layout and infrastructure of these communities.

What other towns was Penn Phillips involved with developing?

Penn Phillips developed several towns across the United States, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. Some of the notable towns and communities he developed include:

California City, California: Perhaps his most ambitious project, California City, was intended to be one of the largest cities in California, with Phillips investing heavily in infrastructure and marketing to attract residents and businesses.
Coos Bay, Oregon: Phillips was known for his development work in the Coos Bay area, significantly impacting the local economy and landscape.
Boron, California: Similar to his work in other towns, Phillips aimed to transform Boron into a thriving community through extensive development projects.
Salton City, California: On the shore of the Salton Sea, Phillips attempted to develop Salton City as a resort community, capitalizing on its unique location and potential for tourism.

Phillips’ approach to development often involved buying large tracts of land, creating basic infrastructure, and then promoting the areas aggressively to attract residents and businesses. His legacy is mixed, with some of his projects turning into successful communities, while others, like California City and Salton City, did not fully realize the grand visions he had planned.

Was Phillips and Mendelsohn together in California City?

Yes, Penn Phillips and Nathan Mendelsohn were indeed associated with the development of California City, California. While Penn Phillips was a prominent real estate developer known for his work in various communities, Nathan Mendelsohn, a sociology professor turned developer, was the main force behind California City’s development.

Mendelsohn purchased the land and envisioned a new city that would become a significant community in the Mojave Desert. He planned and developed the infrastructure, plotting streets and laying out residential, commercial, and industrial areas to attract residents and businesses. Penn Phillips, known for his development projects in other areas, was also involved in the real estate development aspect of California City. However, Mendelsohn was the primary developer and driving force behind the city’s creation and initial development.

Their collaboration in the development of California City was part of the larger trend of ambitious planned communities in post-war America, where developers sought to create new cities and communities from scratch in undeveloped areas.

Was Phillips a con man?

Penn Phillips had a reputation that some considered controversial, and some accounts label him as a con man, particularly in his real estate dealings. He was known for his aggressive and sometimes deceptive marketing strategies. Phillips would often sell land in undeveloped areas, promising potential buyers that these would become thriving communities with various amenities and infrastructure. However, in some cases, the promised development and amenities were not fully realized, leaving buyers with worthless plots of land.

For example, in his development projects, Phillips was known to sell plots of land through high-pressure sales tactics, often exaggerating the potential for growth and development. Buyers sometimes found themselves owning land in remote areas with little to no development, far from the bustling communities they were led to expect.

While Phillips was undoubtedly a successful developer in some respects, creating legitimate and thriving communities, his methods and the outcomes of some of his projects led to a mixed legacy. The perception of him as a con man stems from these practices, where the reality did not always meet the expectations he set for his investors and buyers.

Did Newton Bass in Apple Valley ever work with Penn Phillips?

Newton Bass and Penn Phillips were prominent real estate developers in California’s high desert region. Still, they are generally associated with different communities, and no well-documented collaboration exists between them. Newton Bass was one of the key figures in the development of Apple Valley, California, while Penn Phillips was known for his work in places like Hesperia and California City.

Both men were active during the mid-20th century and were instrumental in the development of the Mojave Desert area, but they operated largely independently of each other. Bass, alongside his partner Bud Westlund, developed Apple Valley into a thriving community, promoting it as an ideal place to live with a focus on quality of life and community amenities.

While both Bass and Phillips had similar careers in developing new communities in California’s desert regions, there is no significant historical record of them working together on a development project. Their approaches to development and the communities they built were distinct, reflecting their individual visions for high desert living.

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Were there any other city developers in the Mojave Desert at the time?ChatGPT

Besides Penn Phillips and Newton Bass, other developers were active in the Mojave Desert area during the mid-20th century. These developers also played significant roles in shaping the region’s landscape and communities:

Bud Westlund: Partnered with Newton Bass in developing Apple Valley; Westlund was instrumental in promoting and building the community alongside Bass. They worked together to create a desirable living environment that attracted residents and businesses to the area.
Ray Ryan: Involved in developing Indio, California, and other areas in the Coachella Valley, Ryan was a notable figure in the real estate and oil industries. His contributions to the region’s development were significant, although controversy and connections to organized crime also marked his career.
Mervyn Dymally: While more known for his political career, Dymally was involved in various development projects in the Mojave Desert region, particularly in the Antelope Valley area. His work in real estate and politics intersected as he contributed to the growth and development of the area.
George Alexander and H.L. Waliser: They were involved in developing Victorville and the surrounding areas. Their efforts helped shape the growth and structure of these communities in the high desert.

These developers, among others, contributed to transforming the Mojave Desert from a sparsely populated area into a region with growing towns and communities. Each brought their unique approach to development, impacting the economic and social landscape of the desert region.

Antelope Valley Developers

In the Lancaster and Palmdale areas of the Mojave Desert, several developers played significant roles in shaping the growth and development of these communities. Some of the notable figures include:

M. Leroy Gilleland: Gilleland was an early developer in Palmdale, playing a crucial role in its development during the mid-20th century. He was instrumental in promoting the area and attracting residents and businesses.
Tom Carrell: Along with his partner, Carrell was a significant figure in the development of Lancaster. They were responsible for much of the residential and commercial development in the area, contributing to Lancaster’s growth and structure.
Jack Kyser: Kyser was a key player in the economic development of the Antelope Valley, including Lancaster and Palmdale. His efforts in regional planning and economic development helped shape the future of these cities.
Fritz Huntsinger: Involved in industrial and commercial development in Palmdale, Huntsinger played a vital role in the city’s economic growth, contributing to its status as an important industrial and aerospace hub.

These developers, among others, were pivotal in transforming Lancaster and Palmdale into the significant urban centers they are today in the Antelope Valley region. Their contributions included residential, commercial, industrial, and aerospace developments, reflecting the diverse economic base of the area.

Lake Manix

/lake-manix/

Pleistocene Ancient Mojave River System

Lake Manix is an ancient lake in what is now the Mojave Desert of California, USA. It was part of the ancient Mojave River system, which flowed through the area during periods of the Pleistocene epoch when the climate was wetter than it is today. The presence of this lake is a testament to the dramatically different environmental conditions that prevailed in the region thousands of years ago.

In its ancient course, the Mojave River fed into Lake Manix, creating a significant water body supporting diverse flora and fauna. This ancient river system was vital for migrating and sustaining animals and possibly early human populations. Over time, Lake Manix eventually dried as the climate became warmer, and the Mojave River’s flow diminished significantly. The remnants of this ancient river system can still be traced in the modern landscape of the Mojave Desert, with the Mojave River now flowing intermittently and largely underground.

Archaeological and geological evidence from the Lake Manix area provides valuable insights into the climatic changes that have occurred over millennia in the Mojave Desert. Studies of sediment deposits, fossil records, and other geological features around the former lake site help scientists reconstruct the paleoenvironmental conditions, offering clues about water availability, vegetation types, and the animals that once inhabited the region.

The transition from a wetter, lake-dominant landscape to the arid desert environment of today highlights the dynamic nature of Earth’s climate and ecosystems. Understanding the history of Lake Manix and the ancient Mojave River system contributes to our knowledge of past climatic shifts. It helps inform current and future conservation efforts in desert ecosystems.

Coyote Arm of Lake Manix

The Coyote arm of Lake Manix refers to a specific portion or segment of ancient Lake Manix, which existed during the Pleistocene epoch in what is now the Mojave Desert of California. This area is particularly interesting to geologists and archaeologists because it provides evidence of the extent of the lake and the environmental conditions that prevailed in the region.

Lake Manix covered a large area and had multiple “arms” or extensions, with the Coyote arm being one of them. These arms were parts of the lake that extended into different valleys or low-lying areas, filled by the ancient Mojave River and its tributaries. The existence of these arms indicates that the lake’s water levels and boundaries changed over time, influenced by climatic fluctuations, precipitation patterns, and river flow dynamics.

Studying the Coyote arm and other parts of Lake Manix helps scientists reconstruct the paleohydrology of the region. By examining sediment layers, fossil remains, and other geological features, researchers can infer past water levels, the timing of lake expansion and contraction, and the habitats around the lake. This information is crucial for understanding how ancient ecosystems responded to climate change and how they supported early human populations and other species.

Evidence from the Coyote arm and similar areas around the former Lake Manix also contributes to our understanding of the broader paleoclimatic patterns in North America. Such studies are part of a larger effort to piece together the history of Earth’s climate and how it has shaped the development of landscapes and ecosystems over geological time scales.

Troy Lake arm of Lake Manix

The Troy Lake arm of Lake Manix represents another significant segment of the ancient Lake Manix, which was a part of the extensive Pleistocene-age lake system in the Mojave Desert, California. Like the Coyote arm, the Troy Lake arm was one of the various extensions or branches of Lake Manix, fed by the ancient Mojave River and its tributaries during a time when the climate was considerably wetter than it is today.

The presence of the Troy Lake arm and other arms like the Coyote arm indicate the region’s complex hydrology and varied topography during the Pleistocene. These arms were essentially the lake’s extensions into surrounding valleys, creating diverse habitats for various plant and animal life. These lake arms’ fluctuating boundaries and water levels, driven by climatic variations, offer valuable insights into past environmental conditions.

Researchers study the Troy Lake arm and focus on sediment deposits, fossilized remains, and other geological indicators to understand the lake’s hydrology, such as water depth, extent, and changes over time. These studies contribute to a broader understanding of how ancient lake systems like Lake Manix responded to glacial and interglacial cycles, influencing precipitation patterns, temperature, and, ultimately, the region’s hydrography.

The research on the Troy Lake arm, alongside other parts of Lake Manix, is crucial for reconstructing past climates and ecosystems. It helps in understanding the challenges faced by early human settlers and the strategies they employed for survival. Moreover, it provides context for current environmental changes and aids in predicting future climatic shifts, especially in desert regions like the Mojave, which are sensitive indicators of broader environmental transformations.

Afton Canyon

/afton-canyon/

Afton Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Mojave,” is a striking geological feature in California’s Mojave Desert. It is renowned for its dramatic landscape, including steep canyon walls, rare desert waterways, and various wildlife. The formation of Afton Canyon is closely tied to the history of Lake Manix and the ancient Mojave River system.

During the Pleistocene epoch, when Lake Manix existed, it was a significant water body fed by the Mojave River, which carried meltwater from glaciers in the mountains to the north. Over time, the climate became drier, and the lake levels fluctuated. Eventually, Lake Manix breached its natural dam, leading to a catastrophic water outflow. This event was a pivotal moment in the formation of Afton Canyon.

The breach of Lake Manix’s dam caused a massive release of water that carved through the landscape, creating Afton Canyon. Rapid erosion cut deeply into the sediment and rock, forming the canyon’s distinctive steep walls. The force of the water was so powerful that it removed vast amounts of material, shaping the canyon into its present form.

Today, Afton Canyon remains one of the few places in the Mojave Desert where the Mojave River flows above ground, offering a rare glimpse into the water’s erosive power that shaped the landscape. The canyon’s formation is a testament to the dynamic geological processes that have occurred over millennia, driven by climatic shifts and water movement.

The role of Lake Manix in forming Afton Canyon highlights the interconnectedness of geological features within the Mojave Desert. It illustrates how ancient lakes, rivers, and climatic conditions have sculpted the region’s unique landscapes. Afton Canyon’s creation is a prime example of how water, even in arid environments, can be a powerful change agent, carving through the earth to create spectacular natural features.

Mojave River & Associated Lakes

The Baker Grade, Interstate 15

/baker-ca/

The Baker Grade is a renowned and challenging stretch of the Interstate 15 (I-15) freeway in the Mojave Desert near Baker, California. This freeway segment is characterized by its steep incline and decline over a long distance, presenting a significant test for vehicles, especially during the extreme temperatures in this desert region. The I-15 is a critical highway connecting Southern California, Los Angeles, and San Diego, as well as Las Vegas, Nevada. Further, it extends towards Salt Lake City, Utah, making the Baker Grade a crucial passage for travelers and freight transport.

Baker, the small town near this stretch of the I-15, is often cited as the “Gateway to Death Valley,” serving as a critical rest and supply stop for those en route to Death Valley National Park and other destinations in the Mojave Desert. The town is famous for the World’s Tallest Thermometer, a 134-foot tall structure designed to commemorate the highest temperature recorded in Death Valley (134°F in 1913) and symbolize the region’s extreme heat.

The Baker Grade’s significance goes beyond its physical challenge; it is a testament to the engineering and planning required to maintain such a vital artery through one of the most inhospitable terrains in the United States. Travelers navigating this section are advised to ensure their vehicle’s cooling system is in optimal condition, to carry plenty of water, and to be prepared for the possibility of extreme weather conditions, which can range from scorching heat to sudden cold in the winter months.

Moreover, the Mojave Desert’s stark, austere beauty offers a unique backdrop for this portion of the I-15. It makes the journey through the Baker Grade memorable for its scenic vistas and physical demands. Despite the challenges it presents, the Baker Grade is an essential component of the southwestern U.S. transportation network, facilitating commerce and travel between California and Nevada.

Deep Creek Hot Springs

/deep-creek-hot-springs/

Deep Creek Hot Springs, located near Apple Valley in the Mojave Desert of Southern California, is a popular natural attraction within the San Bernardino National Forest. These hot springs are renowned for their scenic beauty and the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters. The area around Deep Creek Hot Springs offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing.

Access to Deep Creek Hot Springs is primarily through hiking trails, the most common being the Bradford Ridge Path from the high desert side and the Pacific Crest Trail from the Lake Arrowhead side. The hike to the hot springs is known for its rugged terrain, offering a moderate to challenging trek depending on the path chosen and the hiker’s experience level.

The hot springs themselves are situated along Deep Creek, a tributary of the Mojave River. The area features several pools with varying temperatures, allowing visitors to choose their preferred level of warmth. The surrounding environment is a mix of desert and riparian zones, home to various plant and animal species.

It’s important to note that visiting Deep Creek Hot Springs requires adherence to local regulations and respect for the natural environment. The area is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, which may impose restrictions to protect the habitat and ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. Additionally, due to its remote location and the necessity of hiking to reach the hot springs, visitors should be well-prepared with adequate water, food, and safety gear.

1874 Wheeler Map Overlay

Contemporary highway and road map – 02/04/2024

1874 Wheeler survey map overlay on a contemporary map

Twentynine Palms

/twentynine-palms-ca/

The name “Twentynine Palms,” referring to the city in California, indeed lacks a hyphen, which might seem unusual given the norm in English to hyphenate compound numbers from twenty-one through ninety-nine. The reason for this absence of a hyphen in “Twentynine Palms” is more historical and conventional than grammatical.

The city’s name comes from the original designation of the area by the Oasis of Mara, where it was noted by early settlers or possibly by surveyors that there were twenty-nine palm trees at the site. This naming convention stuck, and the specific styling of “Twentynine” without a hyphen became the city’s official name. Over time, this styling was retained in official documents, signage, and local usage, making it the standard spelling.

In-place names, especially hyphens, can vary widely and are often dictated by tradition or local preference rather than strict grammatical rules. Once a name is established and recognized in official records, it tends to remain unchanged to preserve historical consistency and identity. This is why “Twentynine Palms” remains without a hyphen, reflecting its unique history and how it was originally named.

Mountain High North

Wrightwood Ski Resorts

Mountain High North, previously known as Ski Sunrise, is part of the Mountain High Resort in Wrightwood, California. This area of the resort has its own unique characteristics and offerings. Here’s an overview:

Ski Sunrise – 1996

Location and Terrain: Mountain High North is located in the San Gabriel Mountains near Wrightwood. The terrain at Mountain High North is generally known for being more beginner and family-friendly compared to the other areas of Mountain High. It’s an excellent place for those new to skiing or snowboarding.
Integration and Development: Mountain High North was integrated into Mountain High Resort following the acquisition of the Ski Sunrise area. This integration expanded the overall capacity and variety of terrain offered by Mountain High, making it one of the largest ski resorts in Southern California.
Facilities and Services: Mountain High North typically offers various services, including ski and snowboard lessons, equipment rentals, and food and beverage options. The facilities are designed to cater to families and beginners, focusing on creating a welcoming and accessible environment.
Snow Play and Tubing: One of the unique features of Mountain High North is its emphasis on snow play and tubing. This makes it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders, and those looking to enjoy the snow in other ways.
Operating Schedule: Mountain High North sometimes has a different operating schedule than the West and East resorts, often opening later in the season and closing earlier. This is due to its specific focus and the varying snow conditions across the different areas of Mountain High.
Events and Activities: Mountain High North hosts various events and activities throughout the season aimed at families and beginners. These can include special holiday events, beginner workshops, and family-friendly competitions.
Contribution to Mountain High: The addition of the North resort has allowed Mountain High to offer a more diverse range of experiences to visitors. It complements the more advanced and diverse terrain in the West and East resorts, making the combined Mountain High Resort appealing to a wider range of winter sports enthusiasts.

Mountain High North, with its focus on beginner-friendly slopes, snow play, and tubing, plays a crucial role in the overall appeal of Mountain High Resort. It caters to a segment of visitors looking for a more relaxed, family-oriented snow experience in the proximity of Los Angeles.

Lake Cahuilla

Ancient Lake Cahuilla, or Lake LeConte, was a prehistoric lake in California and northern Mexico. This lake was significantly larger than the current Salton Sea in the same region. It existed in the Salton Basin, a low-lying area of the Colorado Desert.

The formation of Lake Cahuilla was due to the Colorado River changing its course at various times in history. The river flowed into the Salton Basin, creating a large freshwater lake. The size and existence of the lake fluctuated over centuries, depending on the river’s course and the climate.

Lake Cahuilla was significant in several ways:

Ecological Impact: As a large freshwater lake, it supported a diverse ecosystem and was an important habitat for various species.
Human History: The lake significantly influenced the indigenous peoples of the region. Tribes such as the Cahuilla, Quechan, Mohave, and others lived around its shores and relied on its resources for survival. The lake’s presence and subsequent disappearance influenced their cultural narratives and settlement patterns.
Geological Interest: The rise and fall of Lake Cahuilla have been of interest to geologists and other scientists in understanding the region’s geological history and the behavior of the Colorado River.
Archaeological Significance: The areas that were once under the lake have been rich in archaeological findings, providing insights into the life of the indigenous peoples who lived there.
Influence on Modern Issues: The history of Lake Cahuilla has been studied in the context of understanding modern issues related to the Salton Sea, such as environmental and water management challenges.

The remnants of Lake Cahuilla, like beach ridges and other geological features, are still visible in the landscape, providing a glimpse into this prehistoric body of water’s vastness and significance.

Timeline for Lake Cahuilla

The timeline of Lake Cahuilla’s existence spans several thousand years, with filling and drying periods corresponding to changes in the course of the Colorado River and regional climate conditions. Here’s a general overview of its timeline:

Early Formation (Prehistoric Times): The formation of Lake Cahuilla dates back to prehistoric times. It is believed to have formed and disappeared multiple times over several thousand years. The exact dates of these cycles are subject to ongoing research and interpretation.
Evidence of Multiple Cycles (Several Thousand Years Ago): Geological and archaeological evidence suggests that Lake Cahuilla filled and dried up multiple times. These cycles were driven by the Colorado River’s changing course, alternating between flowing into the Gulf of California and the Salton Basin.
Last High Stand (About 1300-1600 AD): One of Lake Cahuilla’s most recent and well-documented high stands occurred between 1300 and 1600 AD. This period is particularly interesting to archaeologists and historians as it coincides with the flourishing of indigenous cultures in the region.
Final Drying (Around 1600 AD): The lake is believed to have dried up completely around 1600 AD, following the Colorado River reverting its course away from the Salton Basin and back towards the Gulf of California. The desert environment of the Salton Sea area as we know it today began to take shape after this event.
Modern Times (20th Century Onwards): The current Salton Sea was created in the early 20th century due to accidental flooding from the Colorado River in part of ancient Lake Cahuilla’s basin. This event is unrelated to the natural cycles that created and dried up Lake Cahuilla but occurs in the same geographic region.

The timeline of Lake Cahuilla is a subject of ongoing scientific study, with new research continually refining our understanding of its history and the factors that influenced its formation and disappearance.

Category: Geography

Catellus

Railroads