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West Kern Oil Museum
WEST KERN OIL MUSEUM
TAFT, CALIFORNIA
Visiting Hours
Fridays & Saturdays
10am - 4pm
Contact Us
(661) 765-6664
Interested in becoming a docent? Fill out this form.
Closed on all Federal Holidays.
Occasionally closed for special events and private functions. See Calendar or call for more information.
About the Museum
The West Kern Oil Museum, located near Highway 33 and Wood Street in Taft, is a treasure trove of information about the city history and documentation of the petroleum industry. Maintained and operated entirely by volunteers, the West Kern Oil Museum includes indoor and outdoor meeting spaces, vintage office, shops, and equipment, a fire house, a tent house, a shotgun house, a transportation building, a tool house, a library and a gift shop.
Become a Member
Embark on a journey of discovery, connection, and support. Become a member today and play a pivotal role in safeguarding the vibrant heritage and culture of West Kern. Your commitment shapes the narrative, ensuring our story continues to thrive for generations to come. Join us on this exciting adventure!
Come Learn With Us
The exhibits within each gallery allow you to trace the local history from the earliest inhabitants, 7,500 years ago, through the tribulations and accomplishments of the early oil pioneers and their families, to the present day. The grounds serve as a replica of an old-time oil company camp replete with necessary facilities including shops and a cookhouse. Surrounding the camp are the accouterment of an early oil field.
Exhibit Galleries
Native Americans
Early History
Boomtown 1918
Trains
Story of Oil Room
Office & Shops
Gushers
Early Housing
Derricks & Pumping Units
Our Mission
"The West Kern Oil Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the area's culture through unique exhibits with an emphasis on history and future discoveries."
A place to learn about culture and heritage on the Westside
Explore displays such as the Buena Vista Room, the large pumps and a wide variety of old vehicles to choose from. West Kern Oil Museum has something for everyone to learn, but we can't do it on our own. We are a volunteer docent ran museum, and kindly accept any donations to help us keep our doors open.
Support Us
The West Kern Oil Museum is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization; we offer volunteer opportunities and accept donations (tax-deductible) from local businesses and residents. Consider becoming an annual supporter of the Museum! Find more information below.
Volunteer
Learn about our various docent & volunteer programs at the Museum.
Newsletter
Join our newsletter to stay updated on the latest events and news from us!
Gold Corporate Member
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