During the Cold War, Mono County was home to one of many remote facilities used by the US military to test new weapons and weapon systems. A "secret military installation" operated by the US Navy was located along the south shoreline of Mono Lake.

During the 1950s and 1960s several branches of the US armed forces utilized this test facility to conduct various research. Numerous top-secret exercises were actually performed here during what was called "seismic testing." However with the expansion of other nearby bases, growing public safety and environmental concerns, this facility soon outgrew its usefulness. In May 1962 all operations ceased and soon thereafter the facility was abandoned.

Although many scientists, technicians, soldiers, and sailors worked at this installation for many years, all that remains today of their activities are a few remnants and the name "Navy Beach."

This monument and plaque dedicated as a California sesquicentennial event.

September 11, 1999

Bodie Chapter #64
E. Clampus Vitus

U. S. Forest Service
Mono Lake R. D.