Manhattan Project National Historical Park Tour Preview

1

American Museum of Science and Energy

For STEM teachers searching for inspiring science field trips, The American Museum of Science & Energy (AMSE) offers innovative learning opportunities that students won’t forget. As one of the best science museums in the southeast, AMSE’s diverse exhibits show how STEM education is applied in real-world settings and how watershed moments in history often involve scientific breakthroughs. Explore the science behind light, color, sound, electricity, weapons, robotics, atoms, and much more through the science museum’s permanent exhibits.

2

International Friendship Bell

This 8,000-pound bronze bell is a testament to the hope for everlasting peace and goodwill throughout the world. Cast in Japan, the bell is the first monument between a Manhattan Project city and Japan. The International Friendship Bell is located in Bissell Park as part of the Secret City Commemorative Walk.

3

Secret City Commemorative Walk

Located in Bissell Park, this memorial honors the thousands of men and women who moved to a city that was not found on maps to help end World War II. The memorial’s oval walkway features 10 bronze plaques that tell the story of Oak Ridge and its role in the war. The Secret City Commemorative Walk also displays a series of eight bronze markers that chronicle what life was like for people who lived in Oak Ridge while it was closed to the public. Concluding the walk are four 30-foot-long “Founder Walls,” which display the 1,488 original founders who came to work in Oak Ridge during 1942 – 1949.

4

Jackson Square

Jackson Square lies at the center of the historic district, which once served as the city’s original town site. During World War II, this area was open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Today Jackson Square features a variety of eclectic shops, delicious restaurants, lush gardens, and historic displays. For about 60 years, the Oak Ridge Playhouse, one of the South’s premier theatres, has also called Jackson Square home.

5

Alexander Guest House

The historic Alexander Inn, originally known as The Guest House, was built during the Manhattan Project to house official visitors and was later used as a hotel. Included on the National Register of Historic Places, this historic gem is just a short walk from Jackson Square.

6

Chapel on the Hill

This beautiful wooden chapel was Oak Ridge, Tennessee’s primary church during the Manhattan Project. Completed in October 1943, Chapel on the Hill was originally a multi-denominational chapel shared by Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish congregations. Nondenominational services are still held in the chapel to this day. Visitors are welcome.