San Bernardino County [and:] Southwest Portion of San Bernardino County, published by the San Bernardino Chamber of Commerce in 1939, offers an illustrative window into the geographical and socio-economic contours of this pivotal California region. Nestled within a single folding promotional pamphlet, these two pictorial maps, complemented by visual narratives, delve deep into the ethos of San Bernardino during the late 1930s.
The late 1930s marked a transitional period for America, coming out of the Great Depression and on the brink of World War II. Against this backdrop, San Bernardino, like many parts of California, sought to project its potentialities to the world, emphasizing its unique geographical positioning and rich resources. This period saw the county as a convergence point for leisure, agriculture, and burgeoning industries—a harmonious blend of economic vitality and recreational allure.
These maps capture the duality of San Bernardino's appeal. The photographic illustrations depicting leisure activities underscore the county's role as a hub for tourism and recreation, highlighting the attractions that drew visitors from far and wide. They not only position the county as a destination for rest and relaxation but also as a locale of scenic beauty, rich in both natural and cultural treasures.
Conversely, the further essays and illustrations dedicated to agricultural activities and "Sources of Income" testify to San Bernardino's economic heartbeat. These sections present a landscape rooted in productivity, revealing the agricultural richness and diversification that defined the county. They speak to the bounty of the land and the industrious spirit of its inhabitants, underlining its importance in California's agrarian tapestry.
In essence, San Bernardino County [and:] Southwest Portion of San Bernardino County stand as multifaceted cartographic testimonies. They navigate the viewer through the varied terrains of San Bernardino, capturing its essence in both economic promise and leisurely pursuit—a tableau of a county in full bloom amidst a nation in flux.