TEHACHAPI, Calif. -- Aug. 13 will officially mark the 100th year since Tehachapi was incorporated in 1909, and while the city has many plans for the future, they want to make sure people don’t forget Tehachapi’s past either.

City Manager Greg Garrett said, “If you don’t respect your past, and remember the history, then how can you make a better future for yourself?”

Whether it is the period lights lighting up the streets of Tehachapi, city parks named in honor of those who came before us, or murals and business signs to beautify the city, Tehachapi is keeping their history alive.

City Councilman Ed Grimes said it is crucial to remember past residents who have made a difference in Tehachapi.

“These are the people who got Tehachapi going in the direction that it’s going, and we can not ever forget that,” said Grimes.

With the eight murals that decorate downtown currently, it's hard to miss the important moments in Tehachapi’s history.

Main Street Tehachapi is planning more murals in the future.

Main Street Tehachapi member, Charles White, said they have over 20 historical murals they would like to complete.

“We’re always looking for something to tie in with historical events, but also that shows how Tehachapi was involved in history,” said White.

The next mural planned is one to celebrate the city’s Centennial.

And while the city had many celebrations planned throughout the year for the Centennial, due to the economy, they had to be scaled back.

Mayor Linda Vernon said, "We had to scale back on some of the big plans that we did have. However, what we have done is partnered with a lot of other organizations in town and businesses in order to celebrate the Centennial in connection with other events that are going on.”

Main Street Tehachapi is one organization that is incorporating the Centennial into all of its events, including the Earth Day Festival, Chili Cook Off, Fourth of July festival, and Summer Wine Walk.

“We have put the word 'Centennial' in front of all of our events. So, people know that it is special and that it means something to the community,” said Main Street Tehachapi Executive Director Michelle Vance.

The city said the year-long Centennial celebration will be a coming together of residents, local businesses and organizations.

If you would like more information on upcoming events, you can visit MainStreetTehachapi.org.