Kern County Ca

Our Historic County of Kern, California

Hand Drawn map of Kern County

*Our Historic County of Kern* by Glendon J. Rodgers, published by the Kern County Historical Society in 1949, served as a guide to the landmarks and historical sites within Kern County, California. This second edition, while slightly revised from the original, continued to provide a brief but complete account of the county’s notable landmarks. The book is designed to be both informative and accessible, encouraging readers to explore and appreciate the historical landmarks of Kern County.

Biography of Clarence S. Crary

Clarence S. Crary, born on March 30, 1879, in Boone, Iowa, is recognized as a prominent banker and “Builder of Banks.” He graduated from Stanford University in 1903. Crary has served as Cashier of the Bank of Burlingame and holds leadership roles in local organizations, including the Burlingame Commercial Club and Merchants Association. His banking career began in 1906, where he played a vital role in establishing banks in California’s oil fields and has been instrumental in doubling the business volume of the Bank of Burlingame.

Ketscher, Ruth Jean – Obituary

Ruth Jean Ketscher, 84, of Burns and formerly of Enterprise, passed away at home. A memorial service will be held at St. Katherine’s Catholic Church, followed by burial and a celebration of life. Born on October 9, 1922, in Detroit, she taught high school and community college after earning degrees in home economics and history. Ruth married George Ketscher in 1950, raising five children and later managing a ranch in Oregon. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Biography of W. A. Kidd

W. A. Kidd, born March 9, 1869, in Pennsylvania, is a prominent businessman in Washington County, recognized as the head of the W. A. Kidd Lumber Company in Bartlesville. After early ventures in oil drilling, he successfully established his lumber business, which employs seven people and serves the retail sector. Kidd has transitioned from initial debt to substantial success through determination and wise management. He is also active in local organizations and has a family with two sons and a daughter from a previous marriage.

Morgan, Martha – Obituary

Martha Ann Morgan, aged 51, passed away on August 25 at a local hospital in Union, Oregon. Born on December 11, 1920, in Bakersfield, California, she graduated from Woodbury Art College. Martha married Jefferson Lee Morgan on March 2, 1946, and they moved to Union in 1968. Active in her community, she was a member of the Union Rebekah Lodge and served as President of the Union Home Extension Unit. She is survived by her husband, two daughters, a brother, a sister, and extended family.

Bean, Velva Moore – Obituary

Mrs. Velva Bean, aged 63, passed away on March 9, 1975, at her home near Wickiup Dam. A native of Bakersfield, California, she was married to Louis A. Bean for nearly 29 years. Velva was active in her community, notably serving as the first president of the Mountain View Hospital Auxiliary in Madras. She is survived by her husband, two sisters, and will be memorialized with a funeral on March 10 at the Madras Evergreen Chapel, followed by interment at Deschutes Memorial Gardens.

Biography of David O. Wilder

David O. Wilder, a prominent figure in Riverside, California, is the owner of the Pioneer Meat Market, renowned for its quality and service. He arrived in California in 1874, initially engaging in horticulture and later working with the Riverside Land and Irrigation Company. After mastering the meat business, he became the market’s proprietor in 1883. An early settler with deep ties to the community, he has been active in its development while also being a dedicated family man. Wilder is affiliated with several local fraternal organizations and is married to Belle Robb, with whom he has two children.

Biographical Sketch of Israel Beal

Israel Beal, born on April 10, 1849, in Virginia, faced early hardships, including the loss of his father during the war. He moved to California in 1865, working in mining before establishing himself as a horticulturist in Lugonia and Redlands. Married to Martha Embers, they had seven children. Beal, a respected community member despite his origins as a former slave, built a successful life and maintained strong ties to his Congregational Church, embodying the spirit of industriousness and family values in his neighborhood.

Basman, Cyril Louis “Louie”, Jr. – Obituary

Cyril Louis “Louie” Basman Jr., 80, passed away on January 7, 2004, in Richland, Oregon, where he had long resided. Born January 1, 1924, in Detroit, Michigan, he served as a Navy pilot during World War II and later married June Ankrom in 1944. The couple lived in Bakersfield, California, for 33 years before retiring to Richland. Louie worked in heating and air conditioning and had a passion for woodworking and reading. He is survived by his wife, children, siblings, and grandchildren.

Biography of Thomas L. McFarlane

Thomas L. McFarlane, born in 1840 in Pennsylvania, became a prominent figure in mining on the Pacific coast. After moving to Iowa, he journeyed west, driving oxen for the U.S. Government and arriving in California in 1859. Initially farming with his brothers, he ventured into mining where he made significant discoveries, including the Ivenpagh silver mine that yielded millions. McFarlane later engaged in various business pursuits and married Miss Seely in 1878. He remains a notable figure in the history of California mining.

Revell, Kathleen D. – Obituary

Kathleen D. Revell, 62, of Halfway, Oregon, passed away on March 28, 2003, following kidney failure and a prolonged battle with multiple sclerosis. Born on March 13, 1941, in Redding, California, she lived a fulfilled life in Halfway, cherishing nature and her beloved animals. Kathleen is survived by her daughter, granddaughter, grandsons, great-grandsons, siblings, and her longtime companion, Al Iverson. She was predeceased by her son, Robert Mosier, in 1988. Memorial contributions can be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation.

Carnahan, Keith Charles – Obituary

Keith Charles Carnahan, 75, passed away on June 16, 2003, at his home in Lake Isabella, California. A military veteran, he served as a U.S. Army captain during World War II and the Korean War, receiving a Purple Heart among other honors. Born on November 1, 1927, in Carson, he pursued a degree in mechanical engineering and worked at McDonnell Douglas and Northrop Corp. He is survived by his wife, Ann, four children, and seven grandchildren. A graveside service will be held at Pine Haven Cemetery.

Loverin, Wesley Ernest – Obituary

Wesley Ernest Loverin, 86, of Hereford, Oregon, passed away on October 31, 2002. Born on July 4, 1916, in Visalia, California, he grew up in Three Rivers, where he contributed to his family’s pack station. A decorated World War II veteran and pilot, he graduated with a degree in agriculture from Fresno State in 1952, later becoming a dedicated rancher. Loverin was passionate about flying and enjoyed outdoor activities with his family, including herding cattle and hunting. He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Parker, George “Brownie” – Obituary

George “Brownie” Parker Sr., 83, of Pine Creek, Oregon, passed away on May 3, 2002. Born on March 31, 1919, in Marietta, Oklahoma, he worked as a tree trimmer for over seventy years after moving to California in 1933. He was a notable breeder of registered quarter horses, recognized as a leading breeder by the American Quarter Horse Association in 1969. Brownie is survived by his wife, Judy, and numerous children, grandchildren, and extended family. A graveside service is scheduled at Pine Haven Cemetery in Halfway.

McCoy, Lillian L. “Peggy” Ray Gribble Mrs. – Obituary

Lillian L. “Peggy” McCoy, 97, of Baker City, passed away on December 25, 2001. Her memorial service is scheduled for December 28 at Coles Funeral Home, led by Pastor Lura Kidner-Miesen. Born on July 5, 1904, in California, she married twice and was a businesswoman in the grocery industry. Peggy was passionate about music, gardening, and crafts. She is survived by her daughter, son, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Contributions can be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children or the United Methodist Church.