Port Chicago Memorial
Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial NPS Photo

Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial

National Historic Site · California · National Park Service

On July 17, 1944, a massive explosion jolted the San Francisco East Bay area, shattering windows and lighting up the night sky. At Port Chicago Naval Magazine, 320 men were killed instantly when two ships loading ammunition for Pacific troops exploded, resulting in the worst home front disaster of WWII. The aftermath illuminated the issues of segregation and racial inequality in the military.

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Know before you go

Phone
9252288860
Official site
www.nps.gov
Managed by
National Park Service

Getting there

Directions on Google Maps →

Things to do

Highlights: African American Heritage · Military · US Navy · Social Movements · Civil Rights · Tragic Events · Explosions · Wars and Conflicts · World War II

Activities & features: Guided Tours · Park Film

Photos

  • Park signs sitting in rock bed. Trees and bay in background.
    NPS photo, Luther Bailey
  • Historic train car.
    NPS photo, Luther Bailey
  • Munitions bolted as display in the magazine.
    NPS photo, Luther Bailey
  • American flag waves in the wind.
    NPS photo, Luther Bailey

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Sources: National Park Service, Google Places · updated 2026-08-12