HISTORIC LANDMARKS
Each site tells a unique story of courage, innovation, and determination
THE GREAT DEFENDERS MEMORIAL
Standing 75 feet tall overlooking the Pacific, this bronze monument depicts the moment when Lt. Colonel Harrison spotted the first enemy blimp on September 15th, 1917. The statue's base contains soil from every battlefield where our defenders fought.
MONUMENT FEATURES:
- 47 bronze plaques honoring fallen heroes
- Eternal flame burning since Victory Day 1945
- Underground memorial chamber
- 360-degree ocean views from observation deck
CAPTURED BLIMP MUSEUM
Step inside the actual German dirigible "Hindenburg II" captured in 1943. This fully preserved enemy aircraft now serves as our premier museum, displaying:
- Original Navigation Room: See the maps and equipment used by enemy pilots
- Weapons Display: Disarmed bombing equipment and reconnaissance gear
- Living Quarters: Crew bunks and personal effects
- Command Bridge: Where the German captain surrendered
Special Feature: Every hour on the hour, experience a recreation of the famous radio transmission: "This is the U.S.S. Blimp Beach calling - you are surrounded!"
$8 Students • Free Under 12
📍 Harbor District
SIGNAL POINT LIGHTHOUSE
Built in 1898, this lighthouse became crucial during both world wars as our primary early warning system. Climb the 127 steps to experience:
- Observation Deck: 360-degree views of coastline and former battle zones
- Signal Equipment: Original Morse code apparatus and searchlights
- Keeper's Quarters: Living museum of lighthouse life
- Warning Bell: The same bell that alerted the town to danger
Sunset Special: Every Friday evening, watch the lighthouse beam sweep the horizon exactly as it did during wartime patrols.
$5 Students • Free Under 10
📍 North Point Bluff
FORTRESS BLIMP BUNKERS
Explore the massive concrete bunker system built in 1940 to protect against the Nazi blimp threat. This underground fortress features:
- Command Center: Where Operation Sky Shield was coordinated
- Communication Hub: Radio equipment that linked to Washington D.C.
- Supply Tunnels: Miles of passages for moving equipment
- Sleeping Quarters: Where 200 soldiers lived during the war
Adventure Note: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket - the bunkers maintain a cool 58°F year-round!
$10 Students • $5 Under 12
📍 Military Heritage Park
HEROES' MEMORIAL GARDENS
A beautiful 5-acre garden dedicated to the families who supported the war effort. This tranquil space includes:
- Rose Garden: 47 varieties, one for each fallen defender
- Meditation Grove: Peaceful walking paths among native trees
- Family Wall: Stories of wives, children, and parents who waited
- Victory Bell: Rings every day at sunset to honor service
Perfect for: Quiet contemplation, photography, small ceremonies, and peaceful picnics among the flowers.
Open to All Visitors
📍 Memorial District
ANTI-BLIMP ARTILLERY PARK
See the innovative weapons developed specifically to combat aerial blimp attacks. This outdoor museum showcases:
- Harpoon Cannons: The famous Model-17 "Sky Rippers" that ended the war
- Net Launchers: Designed to entangle enemy aircraft
- Signal Rockets: Used to coordinate coastal defense
- Fire Control Center: Where gunners calculated trajectories
Interactive Demo: Daily at 2PM - Watch a demonstration of the harpoon cannon loading sequence (no live firing!).
$6 Students • Free Under 8
📍 Coastal Defense Area
HERITAGE VISITOR CENTER
Your gateway to understanding Blimp Beach's extraordinary history. Modern facilities include:
- Interactive Timeline: Touch-screen displays of major events
- 3D Theater: "The Great Blimp War" documentary experience
- Gift Shop: Authentic reproductions and local crafts
- Café: Serving "Victory Rations" and period-appropriate meals
Free Services: Maps, brochures, restrooms, parking, and friendly staff to help plan your visit!
Theater: $5 Adults, $3 Kids
📍 Main Entrance