There’s probably only one place in the Bay Area that played critical roles in both World Wars, ran a secret nuclear-sub operation against the Russkis and now is a fantastic place to wine and dine. That would be Mare Island, a decommissioned Navy shipbuilding base in Vallejo, which this month is inviting visitors to celebrate its stories with walking tours of “living history.”
On Sept. 14, the island will host multiple live reenactments to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. Put on by the Mare Island Historic Park Foundation, the event will give visitors a taste of shipyard operations during the war, delivered by costumed reenactors well-versed in naval affairs.
Director of food and beverage Sharyl Lytle stands in front of 30-barrel fermentation tanks at Coal Shed Brewery on Mare Island in Vallejo, Calif., on Sunday, March 2, 2025. The brewery opened in 2017. (Jose Carlos Fajardo/Bay Area News Group)
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The three-hour guided tour introduces Wendy the Welders – like Rosie the Riveters, but for welding – as well as shipbuilders who hammered together war machines and even a sailor who survived the USS Indianapolis, sunk on the last day of the war. And afterward, attendees are welcome to grab food and drink at Mare Island Brewing Co. or Redwood Empire Whiskey’s new tasting room.
Details: Event takes place 1:30-4:30 p.m. Sept. 14 at 1065 Walnut Ave., Vallejo; $12-$35, reservations required, mihpf.org/events