Central Valley Roots

The Mexican roots of Bakersfield's earliest pioneers: Rio Bravo and Old Panama

The first non-native settlers in the Bakersfield area were from Mexico, in the area known as Rio Bravo, or Old Panama.

Bakersfield's "other" Earl: The Earl of Gosford

Archibald Brabazon Sparrow Acheson, the 4th Earl of Gosford, was a member of the British House of Lords and played an important role in the coronation of Edward the VII in 1901. He also owned a large farm near Bakersfield.

Livingston's Yamato Colony: A community founded by Japanese American farmers

Yamato Colony near Livingston was founded by and for Japanese American farmers.

Pueblo San Emigdio: The oldest Western settlement in the Valley

Located near the Grapevine in Kern County, this pueblo became a rancho in the Mexican-era and is the oldest Western settlement in the southern San Joaquin Valley.

Why do cities like Fresno and Bakersfield have so many county islands?

County islands are unincorporated areas surrounded by land that is part of an incorporated city. These "islands" often lack city-level infrastructure and services.