California Bakersfield Mission

CULTURAL SUMMARY

Bakersfield's culture is a vibrant blend of historical significance and modern innovation. Known as the birthplace of the Bakersfield sound, a subgenre of country music, the city has deep musical roots. Its diverse population includes strong influences from Hispanic, Native American, and European cultures, reflected in its festivals, such as the Kern County Fair and the Bakersfield Museum of Art. Bakersfield’s culinary scene offers a mix of traditional American and Mexican cuisines, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients from the surrounding agricultural areas. Community events and public spaces, like the Kern County Museum and Bakersfield Museum of Art, celebrate the rich history and cultural diversity of the region.

TOPOGRAPHY

The region's topography includes the fertile San Joaquin Valley, the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains, and numerous parks and green spaces, offering a diverse and picturesque environment.

CLIMATE

Summers in Bakersfield are hot and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 100°F (21°C to 38°C), while winters are mild, with temperatures typically ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C); the area receives minimal rainfall throughout the year.

LANGUAGES

English is the predominant language, with a significant number of residents also speaking Spanish.

RELIGIONS

The area features significant communities of Roman Catholics, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and various Southern Baptists, each contributing to the diverse spiritual landscape.

INDUSTRIES

Agriculture: Major employers include Grimmway Farms and Bolthouse Farms, leaders in vegetable production and agricultural innovation.

Energy: Major employers include Aera Energy and Chevron, specializing in oil and gas production and energy solutions.

Manufacturing: Local manufacturing companies focus on diverse sectors including food processing and aerospace, contributing to the regional economy.

LOCAL EVENTS

The Kern County Fair is a major event featuring live music, food, and entertainment; the Bakersfield Museum of Art hosts cultural exhibitions and events; and the Bakersfield Christmas Parade celebrates the holiday season with parades and activities.

TOURISM

Popular tourist attractions include the Kern County Museum, showcasing the region's history and heritage; the Bakersfield Museum of Art, featuring a variety of art exhibits; and the California Living Museum (CALM), which focuses on native wildlife and plant species.

RECREATION

Favored recreational activities include hiking, biking, and exploring historical sites; major parks include Hart Memorial Park and Ming Lake.

MISSION HISTORY

Latter-day Saint immigrants first arrived in San Francisco in 1846. They built communities in the area as they progressed toward the Great Basin. In January 1847, the Mormon Battalion, a group of Latter-day Saints preparing to fight in the Mexican-American War, arrived in San Diego. Six Battalion members were at Sutter's Mill in January 1848, when gold was discovered.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints colony of New Hope was founded in 1850. The first Church building was completed that same year. In 1851, Church leaders encouraged colonization in San Bernardino to augment a travel route from the coast for Utah-bound Saints. The land boom of the 1920s also attracted many members to California. Today, along with several temples, California has more missions than any other state. Additionally, members have cooperated to provide relief for communities after earthquakes, fires, and floods.

MISSION GROUPS

These groups are a great way to connect with other families who have missionaries in the same area, reconnect with other missionaries you served with in the past or simply learn more about the mission. Robust membership activity can make these groups truly amazing resources!

California Bakersfield Missionary Moms Group

California Bakersfield RMs Group

Bakersfield California Mission Facebook Group