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About Shafter, California
Shafter is a city in Kern County, California with a population of 16,988 at the 2010 census. The city is located along State Route 43. Incorporated in 1938, the community was named for General William Rufus Shafter who commanded US Forces in Cuba during the Spanish-American War.
Historically, much of Shafter’s economy has been based on agriculture and ag-related industry. Local crops include almonds, pistachios, cotton, grapes and alfalfa as well as some carrots, potatoes and other vegetables. Cotton and potatoes have a special historical significance for the town of Shafter as leading industries in different periods of the town’s development. More recently Shafter has become a hub for a variety of economic endeavors including; manufacturing, logistics, and energy.
Also of historical note, Shafter is home to Minter Field, which began operations in June 1941 and saw heavy use during World War II. Approximately 7,000 troops were stationed at the airstrip which hosted up to 600 prisoners of war as well. Today, it is publicly owned and administered by the Minter Field Airport District and serves as an industrial center and airport for crop dusters and private aircraft. The Minter Field Museum is maintained on location as well. In addition, the first truly successful human powered airplane, the Gossamer Condor, piloted by Bryan Allen won the Kremer prize on August 23, 1977 at Shafter’s Minter Field. A California State Monument is located at the field for this event.