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Description

Early Recreational Road Automobile Road Map For Lake Tahoe Trips

This road map and guide, titled Automobile Roads from Sacramento and Stockton to Lake Tahoe and Vicinity, was published by the California State Automobile Association (CSAA) in 1925. It provides detailed routes for motorists traveling from Sacramento and Stockton, California, to Lake Tahoe, reflecting the growing popularity of automobile tourism during the early 20th century.

Key Features of the Map:

  • Color-Coded Roads: The map uses a clear system to differentiate between road types. Red lines indicate paved roads, while blue lines represent gravel or dirt roads. This distinction was especially important in the 1920s when the road infrastructure in rural areas was still being developed, and not all routes were fully paved.

  • Mileage Table: On the left side of the map, a mileage table lists the distances between key points such as Roseville, Auburn, Colfax, Truckee, Lake Tahoe, Carson City, and Reno. This feature would have been invaluable to drivers planning their fuel stops, rest breaks, and accommodations, as long-distance travel by car was still a relatively new experience for many Americans in 1925.

  • Detailed Road Network: The map includes a comprehensive road network, showing not only the main highways but also smaller, local roads. It covers a wide area of Northern California and Western Nevada, focusing on the scenic Sierra Nevada region and key destinations like Tahoe Tavern, Carson City, Truckee, Grass Valley, and Reno. The roads are mapped with significant precision, helping drivers navigate the winding and often challenging routes in mountainous areas.

  • Geographical Features: The map highlights important geographical landmarks, including rivers, mountain ranges, lakes, and forests. The Sierra Nevada’s challenging terrain made accurate maps crucial for drivers in the 1920s, as they often faced poor road conditions and limited signage. 

The reverse side of the map offers practical information for 1920s motorists:

  • Local Services: The guide lists hotels, garages, and service stations in towns along the mapped routes, including locations in Sacramento, Carson City, Auburn, Truckee, and other areas. In 1925, automobiles were still relatively new, and service stations were not as widespread as they would become in later decades, so having this information was essential for travelers making long journeys.

  • National Forests: The map encourages exploration of nearby National Forests, particularly the Eldorado National Forest. It details available campsites, hiking trails, and fishing spots, emphasizing the increasing interest in outdoor recreation among motorists. The 1920s saw a rise in the popularity of car camping and scenic driving as forms of leisure, and the map reflects this trend.

  • Outing Trips: Scenic outings such as the Georgetown Divide Road and the Kit Carson Trail are highlighted, offering detailed information on mileage and elevation. These outings provided motorists with opportunities to experience the beauty of the Sierra Nevada landscape through day trips, with suggestions for fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

  • Rules and Regulations: Basic rules for forest visitors are included, emphasizing the importance of fire prevention and proper use of camping areas. In the 1920s, forest conservation efforts were gaining momentum, and organizations like the CSAA played a role in promoting responsible recreation. 

Published during a period of rapid expansion in automobile ownership, this 1925 map was intended for motorists looking to explore the scenic areas around Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada. As the automobile became more accessible to the middle class, organizations like the California State Automobile Association helped promote safe and enjoyable travel by providing detailed maps, practical information, and recommendations for routes and services.

This guide was particularly useful for those seeking a blend of outdoor adventure and leisure, offering insights into local hotels, garages, and campgrounds, as well as highlighting the best roads for reaching popular destinations. With the rise of auto tourism in the 1920s, maps like this one were crucial tools for navigating the often undeveloped roads of the era and ensuring that travelers could enjoy their trips with confidence. 

Condition Description
Minor soiling