City of Taft
Taft, California is a city shaped by grit, growth, and the enduring power of community. Located in western Kern County, this storied town traces its roots to the early 20th century and the rise of the American oil industry. Originally known as Moron, the settlement began as a modest railway siding for the Sunset Railroad in the late 1800s, serving as a key transport link for goods and materials heading west.
But everything changed in 1909, when oil was struck in what would become the Midway-Sunset Oil Field—the largest oil field in California and among the most productive in the nation. As derricks sprang up across the hills and workers flooded into the region, Taft quickly transformed into a boomtown. The city was later renamed Taft in honor of President William Howard Taft, reflecting its growing significance on the national stage.
Throughout the early 1900s, Taft was the epicenter of California’s oil rush. With its bustling main street, vibrant saloons, and constant hum of industrial activity, Taft embodied the pioneering spirit of the American West. Oil companies from across the country established a foothold here, and the city became a symbol of resilience and hard work during both boom and bust cycles.
The Great Depression and the Dust Bowl brought challenges, but Taft endured. Families stayed, businesses adapted, and the oil kept flowing. During World War II, the city’s output helped fuel the Allied war effort, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of American energy independence.
Over time, Taft grew into more than just an oil town—it became a tight-knit, resilient community with deep roots and strong values. The city embraced education, establishing Taft College in 1922, which has since become a respected institution known for workforce development, especially in energy, healthcare, and industrial technology.
Today, traces of Taft’s colorful past are still visible in its historic buildings, local museums, and community traditions. The West Kern Oil Museum is a must-see, offering a fascinating glimpse into the machinery, stories, and people that built the city. Events like Oildorado Days, a quirky, hometown celebration held every five years, bring the community together to honor its heritage with parades, contests, and classic wild west flair.
While oil remains a critical part of Taft’s economy and identity, the city is also looking forward—diversifying its industries, supporting education, and nurturing small businesses. It's a place where history isn’t just remembered—it’s lived, every day.
Whether you’re visiting or planting roots, Taft welcomes you with the spirit of the frontier and the promise of a future that’s as rich as its past.