Things To Do

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  Get a visual perspective

  Historic images from the disaster

  View historic images from the disaster, as well as modern images from the site.

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  Frequently Asked Questions

  Frequently Asked Questions

  A few helpful answers to your questions

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  Learn More!

  Documentary: Into Forgetfulness

  Watch a powerful documentary on The Port Chicago Disaster. Click link for the presentation page.

 

 

The Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial.

NPS/Luther Bailey

Visiting Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial Site

Did You Know?

This national park memorial is located on an active military base at the site of the original disaster. All tours require an advance reservation and are guided only.

Your Tour of the Site

Begin your journey with a shuttle pickup from the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez, California. A ranger will guide you through a discussion that provides deep insights into the Port Chicago disaster. At the memorial, you can stand on the very site of the explosion, gaining a profound understanding of the tragic events. The memorial features dedication plaques and interpretive panels that list the names of the fallen and detail the significance of the disaster. Engage with rangers and fellow visitors to share thoughts and reflections.

A Memorial Dedicated to the Fallen

Dedicated in 1994, the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial honors the lives lost in the Port Chicago disaster and recognizes the crucial role of Port Chicago, California, during World War II. Situated at the Concord Naval Weapons Station near Concord, California, this memorial marks a significant chapter in history.

On July 17, 1944, the Port Chicago disaster resulted in the largest domestic loss of life during World War II. Two ships being loaded with ammunition and bombs at the naval magazine suddenly exploded due to human error and inadequate safety procedures. The catastrophic explosions and subsequent fire claimed 320 lives and caused widespread destruction.

Most of the victims were African American sailors working in a racially segregated military. Despite their bravery and dedication, these sailors were often relegated to menial tasks and denied equal opportunities.

The explosion's aftermath led to the largest naval mutiny in U.S. history and a trial that became a major catalyst for the desegregation of the United States Navy post-war.

 

Steps for Reserving a Tour

Tour Availability

Public access to the Memorial is available through a two-week advance reservation only on Thursdays, Fridays, or Saturdays. Tours begin at 12:30 PM and last approximately 1½ hours. There is no access on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or during Military Ocean Terminal Concord (MOTCO) operations.

Reservation Requirements

Reservations are required and must be made at least two weeks prior to your visit. A government-issued photo ID (such as a state driver's license) is required for military base access. All visitors must enter with the National Park Service. Active U.S. military personnel must also make a reservation. Military Ocean Terminal Concord is a controlled-access area, and all visitors must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

Required Information for Reservations

To request a reservation, call or email us at least two weeks before your planned visit with the following information for each visitor:

1. First Name, Middle Name (no initials), Last Name
2. Phone Number and Email
3. Date of Birth
4. Government Issued Identification Number (e.g., State Driver's License or Identification Card) *All visitors must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Location

All visitors are shuttled to the Memorial in a National Park Service vehicle from John Muir National Historic Site (4202 Alhambra Ave., Martinez, CA). Please arrive at John Muir NHS by 12:15 PM on your appointed tour date.

Reservation Contact

Phone: [phone] ext. 6520