Barstow in San Bernardino County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)

General Beale Uses Camels

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, October 16, 2011

1. General Beale Uses Camels Marker

Inscription. In 1857, under orders to survey a wagon road from New Mexico to California, General Edward Beale followed the 35th parallel to paths opened by Francis Aubry and Lt. A.W. Whipple. Beale’s orders required importation of camels and drivers to experiment carrying freight to the Southwest. Out-performing mules, the camels carried 700 pounds and could go for three days without water. Their feet adapted to rocky-sandy soil, they succeeded both summer and winter, though they were not popular with mules or drivers. The Civil War was brewing so the use of camels ceased.
The railroad and later Route 66 followed Beale’s route.

Erected 2000 by Barstow's Main Street Mural Project.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Military • Roads & Vehicles. In addition, it is included in the U.S. Route 66 series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1857.

Location. 34° 53.961′ N, 117° 1.571′ W. Marker is in Barstow, California, in San Bernardino County. Marker is on North Second Street north of East Cozy Avenue, on the left when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 200 North Second Street, Barstow CA 92311, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Mormon Trail (within shouting distance of this marker);

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The Old Spanish Trail (within shouting distance of this marker); Amiel Weeks Whipple (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); The California Gold Rush (about 300 feet away); Mojave Runners (about 300 feet away); General Steven Watts Kearny (about 400 feet away); Kit Carson (about 400 feet away); Jedediah Smith (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Barstow.

More about this marker. This mural is the second in the series. Barstow’s Main Street murals are intended to illustrate Barstow’s past and enhance its future. The murals line historic Route 66, the Mother Road. The murals depict aspects of the history of Barstow and the surrounding area. New murals are added annually.

Regarding General Beale Uses Camels. Link available to "The United States Army Camel Corps 1856-66" at https://www.armyupress.army.mil/Journals/Military-Review/Directors-Select-Articles/The-United-States-Army-Camel-Corps-1856-66/

Also see . . . Main Street Murals. (Submitted on December 16, 2011, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.)

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, October 16, 2011

2. General Beale Uses Camels Marker

Barstow's Main Street Murals Directory image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, October 16, 2011

3. Barstow's Main Street Murals Directory

[click image to enlarge]
Historic Murals on Route 66’s last existing
“Main St” Illustrating Barstow’s Past to Enhance Its Future

Working to build pride and unity within our community and revitalize Historic Downtown Barstow through the preservation and celebration of our rich cultural heritage through education programs, walking tours, public art and festivals.

We welcome new members who appreciate the power of public art and have a vision for how it can become a revitalizing force in the community.
For further information Tel: 760 257 1052
www.mainstreetmurals.com

Credits. This page was last revised on February 5, 2021. It was originally submitted on December 16, 2011, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 874 times since then and 17 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on December 16, 2011, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. • Syd Whittle was the editor who published this page.