Boxcar at Port Chicago Memorial

The boxcar and memorial are on an active military base and are only accessible with advance reservations through the park. Please see our website for instructions on making a reservation.

• The photograph shows a white boxcar positioned on railway tracks within a revetment at Port Chicago. This boxcar is representative of the types used during World War II to transport munitions from various locations across the United States to the Port Chicago Naval Magazine.  Boxcar Details Appearance: The boxcar is painted white and features the designation "USN 610 5846," indicating its use by the United States Navy.  Structure: It is a robust, enclosed freight car designed to carry munitions securely. The rear end of the boxcar, visible in the photograph, has a large, circular wheel mechanism used for securing the doors. Revetment Features Construction: The boxcar is situated within a protective revetment. The revetment is constructed from thick wooden beams reinforced with concrete, forming a narrow corridor around the boxcar. These structures are designed to contain and direct the force of any accidental explosions, thereby preventing a chain reaction and protecting the surrounding area. Signs: A sign marked "BM 138" and labeled "Restricted Area Keep Out Authorized Personnel Only" is visible, indicating that this area is offlimits to unauthorized individuals.

California: Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial

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 theatre troops blew up.

• The memorial sits by the waterfront with a concrete pathway and open area. The There are four memorial monuments that list the many names of those who had died in the disaster. There is a large flag pole that flies the American Flag.

Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta National Heritage Area

The Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta National Heritage Area was designated in 2019 as the first National Heritage Area in California. The Delta Protection Commission, a state agency, is the coordinating entity.

Temporary Port Chicago Visitor Center

• Temporary Port Chicago Visitor Center
• Important: The Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial shuttle picks up visitors with reservations at the John Muir National Historic Site. Please know that all visitors for the memorial must have a reservation in order to visit the Port Chicago Naval Magazine Memorial. Directions to the John Muir NHS can be found below.

• Port Chicago Memorial Tour
• The Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial is on an active military base and requires advance reservations. Please contact the park for more information.