A historical museum with displays and artifacts from the county’s past is the Kern County Museum, which is situated in Bakersfield, California. A one-room schoolhouse, a train station, and a general store are among the more than 50 historic structures that make up the museum, which gives visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.
The Pioneer Village, a recreation of a town from the late 1800s to the early 1900s, is the focus of the museum. The town’s streets can be explored by visitors, who can stop by places like the doctor’s office, jail, blacksmith shop, and even a store selling Chinese herbs. Aside from the Pioneer Village, the museum also has a number of other exhibits that highlight the history of the region. These include the “Black Gold” exhibit, which describes the history of Kern County’s oil industry, and the “Wagons Ho!” exhibit, which showcases a variety of historic wagons and carriages.
The 200-foot-tall Beale Memorial Clock Tower, one of the museum’s most notable structures, was erected in 1924 as a memorial to Edward Fitzgerald Beale, a significant figure in California history. One of the most popular photo opportunities at the museum is the clock tower, which has developed into an iconic landmark in Bakersfield.
The Lori Brock Children’s Discovery Museum, which provides interactive displays and hands-on exhibits aimed at educating and entertaining kids, is another highlight of the Kern County Museum. A range of STEM-related exhibits are available at the museum, along with historical, cultural, and artistic displays.
For visitors of all ages, the Kern County Museum offers a variety of events and programs throughout the year. The Kern County Scottish Games and Gathering, held annually in April to honor the community’s Scottish heritage through music, dancing, and athletic competitions, is one of the most well-liked occasions. The Haggard Boxcar Music Festival, which celebrates the legacy of country music legend Merle Haggard, and Civil War Revisited, a living history event that brings the Civil War era to life, are two additional events.
In addition to its events and exhibits, the Kern County Museum also provides educational programs for school groups and other organizations. The museum’s education division offers guided tours and practical exercises that are made to satisfy the social studies and science requirements of the state of California. The museum also provides outreach initiatives that transport its displays and artifacts to educational institutions and community centers across Kern County.
The most recent renovation and expansion of the Kern County Museum occurred in 2018, when a brand-new state-of-the-art museum facility was added. A 10,000 square foot exhibit space, a sizable multipurpose room, and a commercial kitchen are all included in the new structure, which is called the Westchester Event Center. In addition to becoming a well-liked location for weddings, business events, and other special occasions, the new facility has allowed the museum to expand its exhibits and programming.
In general, the Kern County Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in Bakersfield’s and Kern County’s history and culture. The museum offers a fascinating look into the past of the area and has something to interest visitors of all ages and interests with its sizable collection of historic structures, exhibits, and artifacts. A trip to the Kern County Museum will undoubtedly be memorable and educational, regardless of whether you’re a local or a visitor to Bakersfield for the first time.
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