Explore Manzanar Block 14 Exhibits

The Block 14 Mess Hall in spring snow.

NPS/MH

Wondering what it would have been like to live at Manzanar? Explore the exhibits of Block 14 to find out. You can reach the mess hall, women’s latrine, and two barracks buildings of Block 14 by walking from the visitor center or you can make it a stop on your self-guided driving tour.

Mess Hall:

The US Army constructed this mess hall at Bishop Air Base in 1942. The National Park Service moved it to Manzanar in 2002 and eventually restored it. It is identical to the 36 mess halls that together produced over 28 million meals here from 1942 to 1945. Walk through the kitchen, sit at the picnic benches, and learn about the logistics and politics of food in Manzanar. Groups interested in using the indoor picnic area can email us for a reservation.

Women’s Latrine:

The women’s latrine was reconstructed in 2017. The communal shower and rows of toilets depict some of the harsh realities of living at Manzanar. Overcrowding led to long lines, unpleasant odors, and an extreme lack of privacy.

Barracks Buildings:

The two barracks buildings were built in 2015 with exhibits being added in the following years. The four barracks exhibits will tell you about arrival to Manzanar, the importance of the Block Manager's Office, the loyalty questionnaire, school at Manzanar, and more.

Details

Duration

1-2 Hours

Reading every word of every exhibit will add time to your Block 14 experience.

Activity

Self-Guided Tours - Walking

The buildings and outdoor exhibits can be explored at your leisure.

Age(s)

0-99

Everyone connects with a different aspect of daily life at Manzanar.

Pets Allowed

Yes

(a)(1) The following structures and/or areas are closed to the possession of pets:

• The visitor center and the fenced cemetery area.

(a)(3) Pets may be left unattended and tied to an object in the following areas, under the conditions noted:

• In the area directly to the north of the entrance door, by the bench.
• Pets may not be tied to the stair railing.
• Pets left unattended that are determined to be a nuisance or left in an unsafe manner will be reported to the local animal control officials.

(a)(5) Pet excrement must be disposed of in accordance with the following conditions:

• Immediately scooped up with plastic bags or paper and disposed of in a trash can.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Manzanar Block 14

Block 14 is located northwest of the Manzanar Visitor Center. It can be reached by walking or as the first stop of the self-guided driving tour.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Plan accordingly.

Time of Day

Day

The site is open from dawn to dusk.

Accessibility Information

Most exhibits are audio described. There is a sidewalk to all building entrances as well as a ramp.