The Port Chicago Alliance's Pop-Up Museum initiative brings the story of the Port Chicago Sailors directly into communities, with two successful installations already held — one in Concord, California, in partnership with Visit Concord and another in San Francisco in partnership with SF Fleet Week.
⚓ In July 2024, the Port Chicago Alliance unveiled its first Pop-Up Museum with a six-week installation in Concord, presented in partnership with Visit Concord. This temporary museum was thoughtfully curated in collaboration with Jill McKinnon and other former residents of the town of Port Chicago, ensuring that the stories and memories of those who lived there remained at the heart of the experience. During its run, the museum also hosted live programming, including educational talks and reflections by National Park Service rangers and Contra Costa County Port Chicago Task Force co-chair Jonathan Lee. Together, these elements created an immersive space that honored history while engaging the community in dialogue and remembrance.
Building on this success, the Alliance brought its Pop-Up Museum to San Francisco during Fleet Week in October 2024. Installed at Fleet Fest, this dynamic exhibition connected audiences to the history of the Port Chicago Sailors within the backdrop of one of the city’s most celebrated military and community events. The experience was further elevated with live performances by vocalist Nayeli Roman and the band Skidaddle, blending music and history to inspire, educate, and reach new audiences across the Bay Area. ⚑