320 Americans Killed in WWII Naval Magazine Accident

On the evening of July 17, 1944, residents in the San Francisco east bay area were jolted awake by a massive explosion that cracked windows and lit up the night sky. At Port Chicago Naval Magazine, 320 men were instantly killed when two ships being loaded with ammunition for the Pacific theater troops blew up. It was WWII's worst home front disaster.

Four memorial stones sit on layered brick. An American flag waves in the wind. Bay water and hills.
Reserving a Tour of the Memorial

Learn how to visit the national park site.

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Commemorating the 80th Anniversary.

We are now accepting reservation requests for the 80th Anniversary. Please follow the link to learn more.

Historic photo of four African American sailors loading munitions into a box car.
People

Learn more about the people who were affected by the disaster.

An historic photo of the disaster. Piles of wood from the pier can be seen.
Places

Learn more about Port Chicago.

A box car sits on a rail track between two large wooded walls, backed by earth mounds.
Historic and Modern Photos

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

An African American woman in a ranger uniform stands in front of a microphone. She is outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to your most common questions.

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Documentary: Into Forgetfulness

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

A small piece of ship metal debris is installed in the ground, as an exhibit.
Collections

Learn more about research and park collections.

A colorized historic photo of the disaster aftermath which shows a lot of wooden debris and vehicles
Colorized Photographs

A small number of photos have been colorized to show more details and to provide a new perspective.

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Park Partner

Learn More About Our Park Partner, Friends of Port Chicago National Memorial

Last updated: May 24, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

4202 Alhambra Ave
Martinez, CA 94553

Phone:

925 228-8860 x6520
General inquiry and reservations.

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