Think of Treasure Island. It is more than just land. It is a testament to human ingenuity and strategic importance.
Treasure Island Naval Station, a former US Navy facility, once thrived here. It operated from 1942 to 1997. This island is artificial. It was constructed in 1936 and 1937. Mud dredged from San Francisco Bay built it.
Originally, Treasure Island was to host the 1939-40 Golden Gate International Exposition. The fair celebrated California and San Francisco’s rise in the Pacific region. But the island’s fate shifted. The US Navy took control. Treasure Island transformed into a naval station.
During World War II, Naval Station Treasure Island became vital. It served as an electronics and radio communications training school. It was the main departure point for sailors heading to the Pacific. Submarines and surface ships filled the waters. The Naval Station also had an Auxiliary Air Facility. Airships, blimps, planes, and seaplanes utilized it. They landed in the Port of Trade Winds Harbor.
Rear Admiral Hugo Wilson Osterhaus was honored for his work. He developed the Treasure Island Naval Station and Auxiliary Air Facility. The square in front of the Administration Building was named after him.
In December 1945, the base’s three theatre complexes were dedicated. They honored World War II Naval heroes killed in action. Theatre One was named for Doris Miller. He was the first African American to receive the Navy Cross. Theatre Two honored Edward O’Hare. He was a Medal of Honor recipient. Theatre Three was named for John Basilone. He was a Medal of Honor recipient as well.
After the war, Treasure Island adapted. A training center for nuclear decontamination was established. A mockup of a navy ship was built in July 1956. It was named the USS Pandemonium. Radioactive materials were placed onboard. Crews trained in radioactive detection and cleanup. The Pandemonium remained in use until July 1969. It was demolished in 1996.
The U.S. Navy used Treasure Island for firefighting and damage control training in later years. The USS Buttercup was a static damage control trainer. It was used for real-time shipboard battle damage repair.
The Naval Station Treasure Island had different names. From 1941 to 1947, it was the Naval Training and Distribution Center. It was the Naval Support Activity from 1975 to 1980.
Treasure Island was decommissioned in 1996. It opened to public control with stipulations. The Navy still owns it. Some property was transferred to other federal entities. The rest is open for development.
Today, Treasure Island is accessible by car, Uber, Lyft or the 25 Bus. People visit for the stunning views. San Francisco’s waterfront is picture-perfect here. The island also hosts public art and festivals.
Yet, Treasure Island faces environmental challenges. The ground is contaminated with toxic substances. This is due to its past use. Cleanup efforts continue. Treasure Island is a place of contrasts. It is a blend of history, progress, and environmental awareness.
As you explore Treasure Island Naval Station remember its past. Consider its present. Envision its future.