Blow out the candles, Oildale, you just had a milestone birthday. Oildale, California just turned 100 years old on Jan. 31.

Celebrations were held at the Bryce C. Rathbun Library, and award-winning authors Gerald Haslam and Jim Wattenbarger spoke about the history of Oildale. The mistress of ceremonies was KUZZ’S Casey McBride.

Dave Foley, a resident of Oildale for 60 years, said, “I am simply amazed by this wonderful town, and it makes me so proud that I’m a part of its 100 birthday.”

An Oildale poet laureate read a poem about Oildale. “There are so many stories and so many memories about this little town,” said Sarah Linz, a local resident. This celebration was like a high school reunion for most of these residents who haven’t seen each other in over 30 years.

Doug Deroo from channel 23 news spoke and was simply amazed how old Oildale actually is now.

Casey McBride said, “Buck Owens would be so proud to be here at this wonderful part of history.” Haslam talked about his memories and childhood living in Oildale, as did Wattenbarger.

Also, residents from the town told humorous and memorable stories about what Oildale was like back then and how they spent their childhoods.

A video tribute to Oildale was played, and it showed old pictures of Oildale and what it looked like and how the town came to be. The video was made by Wattenbarger and clearly shows his passion for this town.

A commutative DVD was given out to everyone free of charge to the residents and an Official Oildale 100 anniversary book is in the works.

The book will feature pictures and stories and should be out by the middle of the year. Residents are encouraged to bring their old pictures of Oildale to the Bryce C. Rathbun Library to go into the book. “Oildale is truly a incredible town where you can truly raise your kids. Long live Oildale,” said Wattenbarger.