Incorporated in 1898, Bakersfield has grown to a population of more than 300,000. Originally a rest-stop for the road-weary traveler through the San Joaquin Valley during the 1860s, Bakersfield soon grew to be a central point for the agricultural, business, and industrial enterprises of the Kern region. Bakersfield is also the County Seat.

The discovery of oil in the area, along with improved agricultural technology, brought economic stability to the area and continues to insure the growth of this fast growing metropolitan city.