Overview

Delve into this documented evolution of Bakersfield's public transportation-from the humble horse-drawn railways of the late 19th century to the advanced hydrogen-fueled coaches traversing its streets today. This volume offers trolley aficionados and local-history enthusiasts an in-depth look at the city's storied transit systems, including early electric streetcars, privately operated jitneys, and the eventual rise of bus-based operations. Drawing upon rare photographs, original timetables, and archival records, Bakersfield CA: A History of Public Transit Services chronicles the growth of the Bakersfield & Kern Electric Railway, the municipal takeover, and the formation of Golden Empire Transit. Along the way, it highlights the pivotal figures, technological breakthroughs, and community dynamics that shaped this ever-evolving network. Rich in historical detail and illustrated with period images, this book is both a testament to Bakersfield's resilience and an invaluable resource for railfans seeking insights into one of California's lesser-known yet fascinating transit histories. Whether you're researching streetcar line expansions or curious about modern bus innovations, you'll find a wealth of information and compelling stories in these pages.

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Bob, born in June 1940 in Los Angeles, was captivated by the city's rich streetcar culture from an early age. Living near two busy lines of the Los Angeles Railway (LARY), the rhythmic clang of trolleys became a comforting sound in his childhood. His love for streetcars was so strong that family drives often detoured onto streets with tracks. The family's move to Culver City in 1947 introduced Bob to the grandeur of the Pacific Electric Railway's (PE) red cars on Venice Blvd., further igniting his passion.At 12, Bob began writing to transit systems nationwide, collecting maps and gaining a deeper understanding of urban transportation. By the end of 1953, he had ridden nearly all of LARY's yellow car lines and explored much of PE's remaining streetcar network.Bob's post-high school years included managing parking lots in downtown Beverly Hills. This allowed him to greet and observe many of the top entertainment stars of the day.A 1968 cross-country train trip allowed him to visit major North American cities and experience their remaining streetcar systems. In 1974, Bob joined the Sacramento Regional Transit District (RT), where he contributed to the development of the Sacramento light rail system, retiring in 2006.Bob married Sandra in 1978, and they have a son, Brandon, who lives in the Washington, D.C. area.

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