Naval Air Station Richmond

Hidden just inside the railroad boxcar in the gift shop for the Gold Coast Railroad Museum is an exhibit on the history of the Naval Air Station Richmond and the three enormous airship hangars that operated from 1942 through 1945.

A huge World War II base spanning more than 2,000 acres, the Naval Air Station Richmond was built to defend the southern coastline of the United States. Unfortunately, a 1945 hurricane and fire destroyed the hangars.

Today, visitors of the Gold Coast Railroad museum, located on part of the former site, can view archival photos, maps, and videos. The historical plaque is found inside the railroad museum grounds, just beyond the ticket counters. Additionally, a single concrete hangar tower—with radio masts perched on top—can be seen from the parking lot.