![Hayden Building, Bakersfield](/img/gd_attr/50068.jpg)
Hayden Building, Bakersfield
The Hayden Building is a classic example of the Second Renaissance Revival architectural style. Designed by San Francisco architect Charles I. Haven, the building was completed in 1904 for the Kern County Land Company and initially housed the Hayden Furniture Company. Over the years, this historic structure has served a diverse array of tenants, reflecting its adaptability and the changing needs of the community.
Following its original use, the building became home to the Ancient Order of United Workmen and then transitioned to Mrs. Andrews' Dancing Hall for children. It later hosted the Continental Hotel and the Valley Office Supply Company, each adding to the building's rich history. In 1991, Curtis and Peggy Darling acquired the Hayden Building, transforming it into an office space and establishing KBID Radio on the second floor, further embedding the structure into Bakersfield's cultural fabric.
In 1998, the building took on a new role as the Spotlight Theatre and Cafe, occupying the basement, ground floor, and mezzanine. This venue became a vibrant space for contemporary playwrights and composers, highlighting the building's continuous evolution and its importance as a cultural and historical landmark in Bakersfield.
Following its original use, the building became home to the Ancient Order of United Workmen and then transitioned to Mrs. Andrews' Dancing Hall for children. It later hosted the Continental Hotel and the Valley Office Supply Company, each adding to the building's rich history. In 1991, Curtis and Peggy Darling acquired the Hayden Building, transforming it into an office space and establishing KBID Radio on the second floor, further embedding the structure into Bakersfield's cultural fabric.
In 1998, the building took on a new role as the Spotlight Theatre and Cafe, occupying the basement, ground floor, and mezzanine. This venue became a vibrant space for contemporary playwrights and composers, highlighting the building's continuous evolution and its importance as a cultural and historical landmark in Bakersfield.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Bakersfield. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Hayden Building on Map
Sight Name: Hayden Building
Sight Location: Bakersfield, USA (See walking tours in Bakersfield)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Bakersfield, USA (See walking tours in Bakersfield)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Bakersfield, California
Create Your Own Walk in Bakersfield
Creating your own self-guided walk in Bakersfield is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Bakersfield Introduction Walking Tour
Bakersfield, California is a hub of culture and history tucked away in the southern end of the San Joaquin Valley. Native Americans, specifically the Yokuts people, inhabited present-day Bakersfield for thousands of years. In 1776, Spanish missionary Francisco Garcés was the first European to explore this territory, encountering its indigenous population.
Among those attracted to the area by... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
Among those attracted to the area by... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
Bakersfield Historical Buildings Tour
Although many buildings in Bakersfield, California were damaged during the earthquake of 1952, the majority of them have survived and since then been carefully restored and preserved. Thanks to this effort, the city boasts a rich tapestry of historical properties reflecting its growth and cultural heritage.
Among these landmarks, the Fox Theater stands out as a beacon of entertainment history.... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.2 Km or 0.7 Miles
Among these landmarks, the Fox Theater stands out as a beacon of entertainment history.... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.2 Km or 0.7 Miles