Kern County Times

This week in Kern County history.

Died on July 9, 1974. Former California governor and Chief Justice

Died on July 9, 1974, in Washington, D.C. Born in Los Angeles, Earl Warren spent his childhood in Bakersfield, where his father worked for the railroad. A determined lawyer, he studied at UC Berkeley, practiced law briefly, and served as Alameda County district attorney for 14 years. Known for his crime-fighting reputation, Warren, a centrist Republican, was elected California governor for three successive terms. In 1953, he became the 14th Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, playing a key role in desegregating public schools. Even in retirement, he led the investigation into President JFK's assassination. Warren's legacy is commemorated at UC San Diego's Warren College, named after him in 1974.

Birth on July 12, 1981: Phillip Anthony Dumatrait, Bakersfield-born MLB pitcher

Born in Bakersfield, California, on July 12, 1981, Phillip Anthony Dumatrait, the former professional baseball pitcher, started his journey at Bakersfield College before being drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the 2000 MLB Draft. Playing for the Cincinnati Reds, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Minnesota Twins, Dumatrait showcased his skills in Major League Baseball. Notable for his versatility, he transitioned from reliever to starter, achieving his first major league victory against the San Francisco Giants on May 7, 2008. After retiring in 2012, Dumatrait left a lasting impact on Bakersfield, connecting his birthplace to the realm of professional baseball.