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Norman's Simplified Maps of Los Angeles and Vicinity, produced by Norman Map Co. and distributed by Western Publishing & Novelty Co. in the mid-20th century, offers a detailed guide to the evolving urban landscape of Southern California. The single sheet contains four distinct maps: a primary map of Los Angeles, a West Central Area map spanning from Los Angeles to Palm Springs, an Orange County map, and a map focusing on the area where four county lines converge near Pomona and Ontario.
Los Angeles, a burgeoning metropolis in the post-war era, was experiencing tremendous growth, spurred by both the entertainment industry and the broader economic boom that characterized mid-century America. This urban expansion was accompanied by the rapid development of new roads, freeways, and points of interest, such as Disneyland, Knott's Berry Farm, and Marineland, all prominently marked in this set. The very existence of this map speaks to a time when automobile travel was becoming increasingly popular, necessitating comprehensive cartographic tools for both residents and visitors.
The representation of the roadways, from major streets to the emerging freeway system, captures a snapshot of the city's infrastructure at a pivotal time. The choice to detail Orange County, and specifically areas of leisure and entertainment, underlines the growing significance of this region as both a residential and recreational hub. Meanwhile, the inclusion of the 4-county lines area focusing on Pomona and Ontario provides insights into the urban development and demarcation trends of the period.
The map's print, with its dual-sided design, maximizes the utility while maintaining a portable format, attesting to the practical needs and aesthetic preferences of the mid-20th-century traveler. This piece offers not just geographical guidance but also serves as a tangible reminder of Los Angeles's dynamic history and its transformation into the sprawling metropolis we recognize today.
