Mare Island Historic Park Foundation, Inc.

Did you know that USS M.G. Vallejo was part of the “41 For Freedom,” the legendary submarine fleet that safeguarded the world during the Cold War?

In July 1964, Mare Island Naval Shipyard began construction of the Ballistic Missile Submarine M.G. Vallejo, SSBN658. M.G. Vallejo would be the 40th of the “41 For Freedom” submarines built to ensure that the Cold War with the Soviet Union would remain cold by virtue of mutually assured destruction.

Having retired near Mare Island I frequently visit the Sail and am always reminded of the boats’ impression on me and led to my 21-year career in the submarine force.

The Current State

The Sail is presently serving as a monument to all who designed, built, and sailed the submarine during her 30+ year contribution to world peace. Having been exposed to and submerged in salt water the entire time, the skin of the 80-ton Sail is rusted and fragile. We know that there are many worthy causes asking for you support, but time is critical—without urgent intervention, the Sail’s deterioration will become irreversible.

The Plan

Our goal is to preserve the structural integrity and restore the viability and appearance of the sail, including:

1. Removing all peeling paint and correcting the condition causing the peeling.

2. Award a contract to a qualified corrosion engineer to analyze the sail and to produce a detailed report of needed preservation.

3. Conduct this GoFundMe campaign to fund the above analysis and report and to raise the matching funds generally required in order to qualify for grants.

4. Use the professionally prepared report to solicit grants from organizations dedicated to preservation of historic artifacts.

5. Improve the lighting system.

Why Your Support Matters

Your TAX DEDUCTABLE contribution will help us:

1. Preserve the Sail’s viability as a monument to world peace.

2. Enhance the Sail’s appearance for visitors, many of whom conduct photo shoots at the Sail.

3. Ensure the Sail remains a vibrant hub for community activities, tours, and educational programs.

4. Protect the Sail’s military and historical significance for future generations.

Join the Effort

Support the preservation of the Mariano G. Vallejo Sail by donating today. Your contribution will help ensure a visual impact that conveys the history and the importance of the “41 For Freedom” for years to come. Together, we can preserve this powerful symbol of peace and innovation—donate today and be part of history.

Mare Island Historic Park Foundation (MIHPF) (a 501(c)3 organization) proudly supports the maintenance of the Sail and your donation will go directly to funding that effort.

Note: You will be charged a 19% tip to GoFundMe by default. To avoid this, click on “Enter a custom tip” and enter $0 or whatever you prefer.

Go Fund Mare Island Chapel

Preserve the Echoes of History: Upgrade the Sound System at Saint Peter’s Chapel

For over a century, Saint Peter’s Chapel on the former Mare Island Naval Shipyard has stood as a testament to the rich history and spiritual heritage of the United States Navy. This historic chapel, built in 1901, a National Landmark, and the oldest naval chapel in the Nation, has witnessed countless moments of joy, sorrow, and celebration, from wedding ceremonies to memorial services, and from Sunday sermons to impromptu concerts. Today, we face a critical need to upgrade the chapel’s sound system to ensure its continued use and preservation for generations to come.

The Current State

The existing sound system, installed decades ago, is no longer sufficient to meet the demands of events and tours. Failed speakers, an outdated amplifier, and worn-out wiring have compromised the chapel’s acoustics, making it difficult to hear speakers, music, and other audio elements. This not only affects the experience of those gathered but also threatens the integrity of the chapel’s historic fabric.

The Plan

Our goal is to replace critical components of the sound system, including:

1. New speakers and an amplifier designed to preserve the chapel’s historic architecture and acoustics.

2. Upgraded wiring and cabling to ensure reliable and efficient signal transmission.

3. Installation of upgraded ancillary equipment to provide for enhanced audio performance.

Why Your Support Matters

Your contribution will help us:

1. Preserve the chapel’s historic integrity by minimizing invasive modifications.

2. Enhance event experience for visitors.

3. Ensure the chapel remains a vibrant hub for community activities, tours, and educational programs.

4. Protect the chapel’s cultural and historical significance for future generations.

Join the Effort

Support the preservation of Saint Peter’s Chapel’s historic sound system by donating today. Your contribution will resonate throughout the chapel’s hallowed halls, ensuring the continued echo of history and the beauty of music for years to come.

We are excited to announce that we were able to lower our GoFundMe goal by $2,000 due to a generous donation by the Rotary!

Note: you will be charged a 19% tip to GoFundMe by default. To avoid this, click on “Enter a custom tip” and enter $0 or whatever you prefer.