Collection of maps surveyed for the Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office between 1860 and 1897. The maps primarily focus on excavations, improvements, and expansions of roads throughout Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Orange Counties. Most of the maps show boundary lines of the various Ranchos existent throughout these counties, and many also include houses, railroads, telegraph lines, and elements of the natural landscape such as canyons and rivers.

The Los Angeles County Office of the Assessor, which has operated since 1850, locates taxable property in Los Angeles County, identifies land owners, and establishes a taxable value for all property. Twelve different individuals held the position of Assessor from 1860-1897, beginning with W.W. Maxy from 1859-1861 and ending with Theodore Summerland from 1894-1898.

372 maps

In order to quote from, publish, or reproduce any of the manuscripts or visual materials, researchers must obtain formal permission from the office of the Library Director. In most instances, permission is given by the Huntington as owner of the physical property rights only, and researchers must also obtain permission from the holder of the literary rights. In some instances, the Huntington owns the literary rights, as well as the physical property rights. Researchers may contact the appropriate curator for further information.

Collection is open to qualified researchers by prior application through the Reader Services Department. For more information, please go to following web site.