Welcome To
Manhattan Project National Historical Park
Roane County and the development of atomic energy
Innovation that Changed the World
Long before there were factories, freeways, or computers an independent people forged a civilization in this beautiful land. Their belief in the power of an idea and the strength of human endeavor led to scientific advancement that changed and continue to change the whole world. Here in Roane County Innovation is where we begin.
Manhattan Project Park
What went on behind the scenes in K-25, Y-12 and X-10 during top-secret WWII efforts between 1942 and 1945? How did 75,000 workers populate a town overnight?
Find out answers to these questions and more when you explore the Manhattan Project National Historical Park. DOE Public Bus Tours are available now.
The Secret City's backstory
President Roosevelt created the Manhattan Project at the urging of Albert Einstein, who believed the Germans could use nuclear material to make "extremely powerful bombs."
Remote Oak Ridge became the military and administrative headquarters for the Manhattan Project.
The changing face of K-25
K-25 was the site of uranium technology development for the Manhattan Project. In 1943, 25,000 workers constructed the world's largest building under one roof.
Learn more about the project's logistics and technology by visiting the K-25 Virtual Museum.