The Tehachapi Museum
Even before you enter the Tehachapi Museum you will be impressed by a rare example of art history. The Museum structure was built in 1931 in the popular art deco architecture of that era. It serves as a branch of the Kern County Library system until 1982 when the Tehachapi Heritage League moved its museum operation to this location.
American historian David McCullough said, “History is who we are.” As you explore the varied collections that fill the Tehachapi Museum you will come to appreciate how insightful those words are as it relates to our community. Tehachapi’s roots began with the Kawaiisu who arrived in this region about 1,500 years ago. While miners passed through on their way to California’s fabled gold rush, the first permanent settlers were ranchers and farmers. But it was the coming of the railroad in 1876 which created the present Tehachapi. The Museum’s collections are not only varied but unique in many respects as they offer you a glimpse of life in Tehachapi and its many generations.
The Milano Gallery
The rich culture and history of the Native American Kawaiisu is showcased in this gallery made possible by Mark and Jessie Milano. Tehachapi and the surrounding territories of the Kawaiisu are rich in cultural history.
The Basket Collection
The Milano Gallery at the Tehachapi Museum currently houses nearly 30 baskets woven by ancestors of several local Kawaiisu families. Many of the baskets show evidence or regular use in the day-to-day lives. Several of the baskets were used to trade for goods. All of the baskets show the incredible talents of these weavers.
Tomo-Kahni Tours
Due to the extremely sensitive nature of the site, Tomo-Kahni is available to the public by tour only. These tours are led by trained State Park docents on the weekends during the spring and fall months.
Arrive at the Tehachapi Museum, 310 S. Green St., Tehachapi, at 8:30 A.M. Registration and orientation begins at 8:45 A.M. Then it is necessary to drive about 12 miles to the park (high clearance vehicles are recommended). The moderately strenuous walking tour takes about three hours to complete.
The overall tour, including orientation and driving time takes about 4 to 5 hours. As Tomo-Kahni is at an elevation of over 4000 feet, the weather is variable, so layered clothing is recommended. Water, good walking shoes and sun protection are also necessary.
The cost of the tour is $5 for adults and $3 for children age 6–16. Under 6 is free, but not recommended on the hike. Reservations must be made two weeks in advance. There is a $10 fee for reservations.
For further information, please contact:
California State Parks
Lancaster, CA 93535
Phone: (661) 946–6092
Fax: (661) 946–9647