Patagonia Bookshelf

Locator (overview)

This map identifies the locations mentioned by William Norris in his letter and memoirs:

Routes and approximate distances involved in drives:

1-2-3-4-5-6 (cattle): 1,000 miles
3-4-5-6 (cattle): 500 miles
8-7-6 (sheep): 500 miles

Tornero Map (published 1904)

We believe that the map reproduced here is the actual copy used by William Norris on his first land journey. We should not be surprised that Norris criticises it for its lack of accuracy, because it is apparent that the company had provided him with the best available survey of Chile, when what he most needed was a good map of the Argentine side.

Routes used (marked in red):

(a) exploratory expedition, from Puerto Santa Cruz (same route used for sheep-drive)
(b) two cattle-drives from Río Negro and Chubut
(c) sea passage from Punta Arenas via Magellan Strait and Messier Channel, onward to Chiloé and Valparaíso
(d) access to Bajo Pisagua from Hale Cove, on Messier Channel (by row-boat)

Five numbered locations in the Baker district (in red):

(1) Baker Port (Bajo Pisagua)
(2) La Colonia (headquarters of the estancia)
(3) Large waterfalls on River Baker
(4) Hale Cove (connecting point with passing steamers; 50 miles from Puerto Baker)
(5) Proposed new port (probably modern Caleta Tortel)

Other places marked:

(A) Punta Arenas
(B) Puerto Santa Cruz
(C) Ea. Cóndor (near Río Gallegos - sheep bought)
(D) Baker Concession (area shaded in light red)

River Baker District

This map shows Norris's area of activity (later developed by Lucas Bridges).