Founders Day Living History Tour: 250 years of American history. 142 years of shipbuilding at Mare I

Sunday, September 13, 2026 at 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM PDT
Grounds of Admiral's Mansion
1065 Walnut Ave, Vallejo, CA 94592
250 Years of America, Seen Through Mare Island's 142 Years of Service on the World Stage

For 142 years, Mare Island served as a place where Americans designed, built, repaired, and sustained the ships that carried out the nation's maritime responsibilities around the globe. Its history reflects not only military service but also technological innovation, industrial excellence, and the thousands of people whose work connected California to events that shaped world history.

Experience history where it happened on this guided walking tour featuring the Interpreting History Players. As you travel between four presentation stations throughout the historic shipyard, professional actors and knowledgeable docents will bring Mare Island's past to life through engaging reenactments, storytelling, and historical interpretation. From the Civil War to the Cold War, discover how Mare Island helped shape America's naval history and contributed to the nation's defense for more than a century.

The afternoon begins and ends at the historic Admiral's Mansion, where guests can enjoy a beer and wine garden, browse community exhibits, bid on unique silent auction items, and connect with fellow history enthusiasts.

Event Schedule
1:30 PM – Check-in opens at the Admiral's Mansion
2:00 PM – Guided Living History Tours begin
3:30 PM – Return to the Admiral's Mansion for the beer garden, exhibits, and silent auction
3:45 PM – Raffle and closing remarks
4:00 PM – Silent auction closes
4:30 PM – Event concludes

Ticket Information
Adults: $35
MIHPF Members: $30 (Verified by name & email upon check-in)
Youth (Ages 8–13): $15

Important Information
This is a guided walking tour of approximately one-quarter mile.
Seating will be available at each presentation stop.
Families are welcome; the program is recommended for ages 8 and older.
Space is limited and advance ticket purchase is strongly encouraged.