Our Community Assets

The Historical Society of the Upper Mojave Desert (HSUMD) is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of the region, including the city of Ridgecrest and its surrounding areas. The society operates out of several historical buildings that serve as museums, archives, and community spaces. Some key historical buildings associated with the society include:

Historic USO Building

• Location: Ridgecrest, California
• History: The Historic USO Building, constructed in 1945, was originally a United Service Organizations (USO) facility serving military personnel during World War II. After the war, it continued to function as a community center and has been preserved as a key historical landmark in Ridgecrest.
• Current Use: The building is now managed by the HSUMD and serves as a venue for events, exhibits, and meetings. It houses a small museum that displays artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the history of the Upper Mojave Desert region.

Veterans Memorial Building

• Location: Ridgecrest, California
• History: The VMB is another historical property managed by the HSUMD. It reflects the early residential architecture of the region and offers a glimpse into the domestic life of Ridgecrest’s early settlers. The original building was used for the Isabella School located in Old Kernville prior to being moved to Ridgecrest.
• Current Use: The house has been restored and is occasionally opened to the public for tours and educational programs.

Old Kern County Jail House

• Location: Not directly in Ridgecrest but within the broader Mojave Desert region.
• History: This building is an example of the many historical sites throughout Kern County that the HSUMD helps to preserve and promote. Courthouses like this one played a significant role in the development of the region during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Current Use: While the exact status of this courthouse can vary, buildings like these are often preserved as historical sites or converted into museums.

Old Kern County Fire House

• Location: Ridgecrest, California
• History: The old Kern County fire station in Ridgecrest, California, has historical significance and reflects the region’s development over the years. Ridgecrest itself is a small city located in the Mojave Desert, serving as a hub for nearby military installations and the surrounding natural beauty. The station, like many others, would have played a vital role in community safety and emergency response. If you’re looking for specific details about its history, architecture, or current status, let me know!
• Current Use: The old building, while no longer in use, remains a significant part of Ridgecrest’s history.

These buildings represent just a portion of the historical assets that the HSUMD is involved with, and they provide a tangible connection to the past for both residents and visitors to the region. The society often holds events, such as history talks and exhibitions, to further engage the community with the area’s history.