Tehichipa, California facts for kids

Tehichipa was once a small town in Kern County, California. It was located near the railroad, close to Oak Creek Pass and a place called Old Town. This area is in the southern part of California.

The Story of Tehichipa

Tehichipa started its life in 1869. A man named James Williams founded the town and first named it Williamsburg, after himself. However, by 1872, the town's name was changed to Tehichipa.

Why Was Tehichipa Important?

Before railroads were built in the area, Tehichipa was a busy place. It served as a shipping center for gold mines located in the Owens Valley. Gold from these mines would pass through Tehichipa on its way to other places.

How Did Tehichipa Change?

A big change happened in 1876 when the Southern Pacific Railroad built a new railway line. Instead of going through Tehichipa, the railroad decided to build a new town nearby. This new town was called "Tehachapi Summit."

Because the railroad went to Tehachapi Summit instead of Tehichipa, Tehachapi Summit started to grow very quickly. People and businesses moved there, and it became the main center in the area. Over time, Tehachapi Summit grew into the city we know today as Tehachapi. Sadly, as Tehachapi grew, Tehichipa slowly faded away and eventually became a ghost town.

What Remains of Tehichipa?

Today, only one building from the original Tehichipa still exists. This building is called the Errea House, and it was moved to the city of Tehachapi to be preserved.

Tehichipa's Post Office

Tehichipa also had its own post office. It operated from 1869, the year the town was founded, until 1877. After that, the mail service was moved to Old Town, which was another nearby settlement.