Port Chicago: The Rest of the Story

636 Ward St, Martinez, CA 94553, USA

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CCCHS Author in the Archives Series presents

Dean McLeod, author, historian, professional genealogist and former resident of Contra Costa County returns to Martinez this July to share "the rest of the story" of Port Chicago.

Port Chicago, an all-American town on Suisun Bay known for its shipping port and two rail lines.  The early industries of lumber and petrochemical put the town “on the map” long before WWII. The Great Depression nearly decimated the town before it was rejuvenated by “Big Oil”.  The need for oil, fuel and weapons during WWII changed everything and then in July 1944, the devastating explosion occurred.

Through Dean's extensive research and oral interviews of people from Port Chicago, he weaves a much more detailed account of the small town and discovers there are many more unanswered questions of the "who, how and why" that will fascinate Naval historians, World War II enthusiasts and local Contra Costa County residents alike.

Expect a walk through time and some unexpected discussion, including theories of secrets, spies and bombs.  

As we listen and learn about this forgotten town, we honor and pay our respect to the lives lost and the families displaced.

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Doors open at 4:00 p.m. Dean’s talk begins at 4:30 p.m. Book signing to follow immediately.

Some of Dean’s research papers and historic documents as well as photographs and original newspapers from the time will be on display for viewing before and after his talk

Admission is $10 for CCCHS members, $20 for non-members.

RSVP is requested.  Click here to RSVP online. Or call (925) 229-1042 or email us at mkting@cocohistory.org

Downtown parking is free on Sundays.

Beverages and snacks will be available for purchase at the Campbell Theater lobby bar. Complimentary waters provided by CCCHS.

‍All proceeds benefit the preservation work of the Contra Costa County Historical Society.