Merry Go Round Antique Mall and Tunnels, Bakersfield

The Merry Go Round Antique Mall offers more than just a collection of vintage treasures; it serves as a portal to the city's intriguing underground past. Beneath this quaint antique store lies a network of tunnels, a remnant from the early 1900s that hints at Bakersfield's storied history. Visitors peering through a basement window can glimpse an old brick enclosure that forms part of this subterranean labyrinth, which reflects a bygone era of the city’s development. These tunnels, although newer than the original ones built in the 1880s, have become an integral part of the lore surrounding Bakersfield’s hidden depths.

The history of Bakersfield's tunnels is deeply intertwined with the city's unique position as the only California county to host multiple China Towns. These enclaves emerged in the mid-1880s, populated by Chinese immigrants who came from different parts of China and spoke various dialects, leading to the formation of distinct communities just streets apart. To escape the sweltering Bakersfield heat, these communities constructed tunnels. However, the tunnels beneath Merry Go Round Antiques were constructed after the devastating Bakersfield fire of 1889 and were primarily intended for the transportation of goods.

Contrary to popular myths, the tunnels were not used for nefarious activities such as transporting drugs and alcohol. Although tales of underground gambling and opium dens persist, these are largely fictional. Such activities did occur in the China Towns, but they were not hidden away underground; instead, they took place openly within the communities. Additionally, there is no credible evidence to support the notion that the tunnels were ever haunted, despite the rich folklore that surrounds them.

Today, the tunnels under Merry Go Round Antiques offer a unique glimpse into the past, revealing the practical and social dynamics of the city’s early immigrant communities. For both tourists and locals, exploring these tunnels provides a fascinating connection to the historical fabric of Bakersfield, enriching their understanding of the city's cultural heritage.