Discover the World’s Largest Thermometer in Baker, California | A Look at Its History, Construction & Significance

When you enter Baker, California, there is one thing that immediately catches your eye – the world’s largest thermometer! It’s impossible to miss it as it stands tall at 134 feet and serves as a beacon for visitors exploring the nearby Death Valley National Park. This surging thermometer was built to record the high temperatures of the area, which regularly exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the history, construction, and significance of this iconic piece of roadside Americana.

History of the Thermometer

As you drive along I-15, you may have noticed the massive thermometer towering over the desert landscapes. This structure was first imagined in 1988 by a man named Willis Herron, who wanted to showcase the scorching heat of Baker, California. He enlisted the help of an electrical contractor named Rafael Tijerina, who brought his expertise to the table to bring Willis’s dream to fruition. The thermometer was completed in 1991 and has been a prominent landmark ever since.

Construction of the Thermometer

The construction of the world’s largest thermometer involved some incredible feats of engineering. The thermometer is built to withstand strong winds of up to 180 mph, which is crucial in the windy desert location. The thermometer has a steel frame and features an 80-foot-high thermometer that is entirely illuminated with over 5,000 bulbs! These bulbs help the thermometer to glow brightly, even in the pitch-black desert nights.

Significance of the Thermometer

The world’s largest thermometer may seem like a novelty, but it serves an essential practical purpose. The thermometer is an integral part of Baker’s tourism industry, attracting curious visitors from all over the world. The town of Baker is situated right at the entrance of Death Valley National Park, and the thermometer serves as a gateway to this incredible destination. The thermometer not only measures the temperature, but it stands as a symbol of human achievement and determination, as well as a testament to the enduring spirit of American roadside culture.

Visiting the World’s Largest Thermometer

If you’re interested in visiting the world’s largest thermometer, you’ll have no trouble finding it. The thermometer is situated on Baker Boulevard, right off I-15, making it easily accessible to anyone driving in the area. You can park your vehicle and take some fantastic photos with the thermometer as your backdrop. If you happen to be visiting during a hot summer’s day, it’s definitely worth sticking around to see the thermometer change colors as the temperature rises.

In conclusion, the world’s largest thermometer is an incredible feat of engineering and an impressive representation of the American roadside culture. From its humble beginnings in the mind of Willis Herron to its final construction by Rafael Tijerina, the thermometer has been captivating visitors for over 30 years. Whether you’re a resident of Baker or a visitor to the area, the world’s largest thermometer is well worth a visit, so make sure you add it to your list of must-see destinations!