Whose Stories Can You Find at Mare Island Naval Cemetery?

On the hill beyond the shipyard, names replace cranes and machinery as the best way into Mare Island’s history. The naval cemetery holds sailors, members of their families and people whose work reached beyond the Navy. Pick two names to look up beforehand and the stop becomes a much more personal visit.

How old is the cemetery, and where is its entrance?

The Navy established the cemetery soon after the shipyard began operating in 1854. Burials on this hillside began in 1856, and the Department of Veterans Affairs identifies it as the oldest naval cemetery west of the Mississippi. Its visitor directions specify Imhoff Road. Use those directions for the approach and save the cemetery name separately from the general shipyard address.

Which sailor’s story can I follow before visiting?

John Enright served aboard USS Ranger. During a survey off Ensenada, Mexico, a storm swept two shipmates into the water in 1886. Enright went in after them and saved them both, earning the Medal of Honor. The VA’s cemetery page links to his Veterans Legacy Memorial entry. Read his account before you set out so you can spend your time there with the place rather than a search box.

Who is remembered here besides sailors?

Anna Arnold Key Turner, one of Vallejo’s early public school teachers, is buried beside her husband, who worked as a civil engineer at the shipyard. She was also the daughter of Francis Scott Key. Her story gives the hillside a connection to the town across the water. Keep the audio at a private volume as you move between grave markers and give visiting families plenty of space.