Site information:

Courtyard of Saint Thomas Catholic Church, 350 E Bear Mountain Blvd, Arvin

35.208639,-118.821312

Plaque information:

Private plaque

Plaque text:

Francisco Garces O.F.M.

Padre Garcés, first recorded non-Indian to visit this locality, came in April of 1776, seeking a new route from Mexico to California. His epic journey covered more than two thousand miles of uncharted wilderness, opening trails that later became highways and railroads.

Sponsored by Kern County Chamber of Commerce, Kern County Historical Society, Bakersfield El Tajon Parlor No. 239 N.D.G.W, Bakersfield Parlor No.42 N.S.G.W.

Registered 9/4/1940