Fort MacArthur Museum San Pedro Day Trip: Learn About History

There are not too many places you can visit to learn about Southern California’s history and military history and enjoy magnificent views of the ocean. Still, there is one—Fort MacArthur in San Pedro. The Fort is located at the entrance to Los Angeles Harbor. A former United States Army installation offers the chance to explore the local military history and respect those who have served our country so bravely.

In 1888, President Cleveland designated the area overlooking San Pedro Bay as a military reservation to improve the defenses of the Los Angeles harbor area. Fort MacArthur was formally created in 1914 and used as a training center during WWI.

Large gun batteries for harbor defense were installed in 1917. Test firings shatter windows in buildings and houses for miles, obviously unpopular with the residents. By World War II, the large guns were removed and decommissioned.

The fort, located on the West Coast of the United States, is named after Lieutenant General Arthur MacArthur. His son, Douglas MacArthur, was a commander of American forces in the Pacific during World War II. Fort MacArthur is considered the country’s best-preserved coastal defense gun site.

Korean Bell of Friendship

The upper reservation is now a city park called Angels Gate Park and is home to the Korean Bell of Friendship. The Republic of Korea presented the bell to the American people to celebrate the bicentennial and honor American veterans of the Korean War.

Modeled after the Divine Bell of King the Great, it is among the most massive bells globally, with over 17 tons of copper, tin, and gold. Its diameter is 7.5 feet and height 12 feet, while the exterior surface is richly decorated.

The Fort MacArthur Military Museum is located at the site of Battery Osgood-Farley. It displays exhibits on the Fort’s history, its role in defending the Los Angeles area, and Los Angeles’s role as a military port. Volunteers are well-versed in military history and willing to tell a story or two.

It was a night when thousands of military and civilians were convinced that Los Angeles was being attacked from the air and even from space. What happened that night is debatable, but the recreation offers an exciting time. The Great LA Air Raid event is held outdoors, under the stars, in the courtyard of the Museum. Just down the hill from Fort McArthur is the historic Point Fermin Lighthouse.

Point Fermin Lighthouse

Built-in 1874, the Point Fermin Lighthouse was the first navigational light in San Pedro Bay. The Lighthouse is open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM. However, it remains closed on Mondays. Please note that the Lighthouse may also be closed on major holidays or for special events in the park. Therefore, it’s always best to call ahead for specific dates. You can enjoy guided tours of the Lighthouse every hour at 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 3:00 PM from Tuesday to Sunday.

Admission to the fort is free, although a donation is suggested. All funds are used to operate and preserve Fort MacArthur. Next time you’re looking for an educational and fun way to spend an afternoon, visit Fort MacArthur. The Fort is at 3601 South Gaffey Street, San Pedro, California, Angels Gate Park.

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