Making History,
Celebrating History

Her journey is not just a path but a mission — one that aims to uplift and empower those in her community. Each project Rosalind Manoogian, owner of Fog Crest Vineyard in Sonoma County, undertakes resonates with her mission and individuality, as she believes that every endeavor should reflect the unique stories and identities of the people involved.

One of her proudest achievements is the 2023 Estate Pinot, which features a distinct label that pays homage to the history and culture behind the wine. Sourced from her own grapes and arguably the best Pinot Noir grapes available, her estate's grapes were a natural choice for The Port Chicago Commemorative Wine. She chose to showcase this wine because it not only embodies quality but also serves as a symbolic pairing for the stories that need to be told about the Port Chicago tragedy.

Her family’s roots trace back to northern Louisiana, where four sets of aunts and uncles migrated from their country homes to the San Francisco Bay Area during the 1940s.They sought a better life, leaving the South in pursuit of opportunities for their families. This historical backdrop of determination and resilience is essential as she acknowledges the sacrifices and struggles faced by those who came before her.

Rosalind Manoogian

Eighty years after explosions ripped through the Port Chicago naval magazine facility in California -- killing 320 sailors and injuring 400 more -- Coast Guard personnel and civilians, and the secretary of the Navy announced the full exoneration of African American sailors who were charged in 1944 with mutiny and refusing orders to return to work in dangerous conditions loading ammunition.

Rosalind is acutely aware of the responsibility that comes with telling this story — one that must accurately reflect the past while connecting it to the present. “It is vital to acknowledge the painful chapters of history, such as the tragic loss of over 300 soldiers and the lingering shadows of segregation and injustice in the military,” says Manoogian. While her mother was the first in her family to attend college, the legacy of struggle and triumph has created a strong narrative Rosalind that spans generations.

One of her primary goals through her collaboration with Friends of Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial (501(c)(3)) is to donate a portion of the proceeds from her Commemorative Edition wine sales to support the creation of a Visitor’s and Interpretive Center, plus other projects keeping the story alive for generations to come. This project stands as a testament to her dedication and commitment to preserving history while creating a space for education and reflection.

In every project, she aims to keep this awareness at the forefront. It is her goal to remain grounded in positivity, constantly reaching back to uplift others as they all move forward together. The commemorative label reflects this ethos, serving as a statement that breaks from past conventions — especially in a field where few women, and even fewer Black women, have made their mark. This is a challenge she wholeheartedly embraces as she bravely steps into a role that has long been dominated by others.

Above: Proud Black Sailors march to work at Port Chicago.

Center: Black sailors work with ammunition to be shipped from Port Chicago.

Below: Photo shows part of the devastation after the large explosions in Port Chicago.

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The history of Port Chicago is deeply woven into her mission. Rosalind recognizes the importance of this history and remains committed to keeping the legacy alive, valuing the lessons learned and ensuring that they do not fall into obscurity.

Notably, the story of those court-martialed and convicted speaks volumes about the times. Eleanor Roosevelt’s involvement paved the way for military desegregation and inspired movements like WIC, further influencing the civil rights landscape from the late 1940s through the 1960s.

While Rosalind Manoogian recognizes her role as a model for others, it comes with a certain level of discomfort. Instead of solely seeking the spotlight for herself, she is passionate about providing opportunities for others to succeed. There’s an intrinsic motivation that drives her. If she can achieve her goals, she believes others can too. Her work touches upon monumental events and histories that have shaped countless lives, and elevating these narratives is deeply fulfilling.

Looking ahead, she envisions partnering with similar organizations and initiatives that align with her mission. It is crucial for her to remain grounded in her core values — those principles that keep her centered and motivated in her work.

Her story is interwoven with the very fabric of the Bay Area, where history and place come together, creating a rich tapestry of experiences that continue to resonate. In this context, she remains committed to honoring that legacy while forging new paths for future generations.