History

 

For over 70 years, the San Francisco Maritime National Park Association, a non-profit organization, has been dedicated to bringing maritime history to life in the San Francisco Bay Area. The Association was established in 1950 as the San Francisco Maritime Museum Association, and initially oversaw the maritime museum housed in the landmark art deco building in Aquatic Park at the foot of Polk Street.

In 1954 the Association acquired the tall ship Balclutha, renovated it and opened it for public tours. Over the ensuing decades, the Association played a pivotal role in shaping Victorian Park and Hyde Street Pier into revered historical sites. These areas eventually integrated into the California State Park system and later, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, achieving National Historical Park status in 1988.

Today, the Association continues its steadfast support of San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park as its non-profit partner while independently managing the USS Pampanito, a World War II submarine museum and memorial.

Each year, the Association’s unique education programs at San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park serve more than 10,000 schoolchildren. In addition, the Association works in partnership with San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park to provide public programs, music, interpretive events, and more. The member’s Sea Letter magazine provides high quality writing and stories from a wide range of experts, park, and Association staff.

Acquired by the Association in 1976, the USS Pampanito underwent meticulous restoration and made its public debut in 1982. With over 100,000 annual visitors, this National Historic Landmark is globally recognized for its exemplary preservation. The Pampanito is the sole publicly accessible World War II submarine on the West Coast, and stands as a vital link to that era in our nation’s history. Beyond its historical significance, the submarine plays a crucial educational role, hosting over 1,000 children and adults annually for both daytime and overnight programs. The Pampanito serves not only as a living testament to our maritime legacy but also underscores the Association’s enduring commitment to preserving and sharing maritime heritage.