Beginning in the 19th century, Stockton provided a maritime way point to the south, east and north for freight shipping and passenger transportation from the San Francisco Bay into the Gold Rush county of the Mother Lode. Stockton is situated at the head of a navigable channel, several miles east of the San Joaquin River and approximately 90 miles inland from San Francisco Bay. The city’s strategic location along several waterways is what defined Stockton and its surrounding communities. It is known as California’s Inland Port.
As the maritime industry grew, the need for ships and other vessels increased. During World War ll, Stockton was host to ten shipyards turning out vessels for the war effort. This rich industry provided upwards of 30,000 jobs during its peak ship building activity. Many Stocktonians and their descendants can trace their livelihood and successes back to these companies that relied upon the maritime industry.
Today, the city continues to serve as a major shipping point for the many of agricultural and manufactured products of Northern California.
Stockton Maritime Museum 