The Pioneer Village Museum in Bakersfield has cut the ribbon on the Merle Haggard Boxcar House, opening the home of the music legend to the public after relocating it from Yosemite Drive in Oildale.

Merle’s son, Jim, says Sunday’s celebration of the new exhibit is a source of pride for the family and is true local history.

The boxcar was purchased by Merle Haggard’s parents and converted into a house in 1935 after they moved from Oklahoma. Local philanthropist Cynthia Lake paid for the relocation and restoration.

Sean Michael Lisle