Garces Memorial Circle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Garces Memorial Circle |
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Sculpture of Padre Francisco Garces in Garces Circle
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| Location | Bakersfield, California |
| Built | 1932 |
| Governing body | City of Bakersfield |
| Designated | October 21, 1937 |
| Reference no. | 277 |
The Garces Memorial Traffic Circle, often called Garces Circle, is a special roundabout in Bakersfield, California. A roundabout is a circular intersection where traffic flows in one direction around a central island. This famous circle is found where Chester Avenue, Golden State Avenue (also known as State Route 204), and 30th Street meet. It was built around 1932 as part of the old US 99 highway. Inside the circle, there is a large statue of Father Francisco Garces. This statue was created in 1939 by an artist named John Palo-Kangas.
The Garces Memorial Traffic Circle is very similar to the Long Beach Traffic Circle. That circle was also built in the 1930s in Long Beach.
Contents
What is Garces Circle?
Garces Circle is a busy intersection designed to help cars move smoothly. Instead of traffic lights, cars drive around a central island. This helps reduce traffic jams and makes the area safer. It's a well-known landmark in Bakersfield.
A Bit of History
The Garces Circle was built in 1932. It was an important part of the historic US 99 highway. This highway once stretched across California. The circle helped travelers easily move through Bakersfield. It has been a key part of the city's transportation for many years.
The Statue of Padre Garces
Inside the circle, you'll see a large statue. It honors Father Francisco Garces. He was a Spanish priest. He explored this area a long time ago, in 1776. The circle is named after him to remember his visit.
A Historical Marker
The Garces Circle is also a California Historical Landmark. This means it's a very important place in California's history. A special marker at the site tells us more. It says:
- NO. 277 GARCÉS CIRCLE - This is the approximate site of the Indian rancheria visited by Franciscan friar Padre Francisco Garcés on May 7, 1776. Padre Garcés named this spot San Miguel de los Noches por el Santa Príncipe.
This marker tells us that Father Garces visited this exact spot on May 7, 1776. He found an Indian village, called a "rancheria," here. He gave the place a special Spanish name: San Miguel de los Noches por el Santa Príncipe. This shows how old and important the history of this area is.
Images for kids
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The circle is named after Spanish priest Francisco Garcés, who arrived in the Bakersfield area in 1776.
