Overview

Learn more about the history of nuclear weapons, Y-12 National Security Complex, and Oak Ridge’s role in the Manhattan Project as you browse through New Hope Center’s artifacts, displays, photos, and videos. In an effort to end World War II, the U.S. government built Y-12 as part of its top-secret Manhattan Project, which developed the world’s first atomic bombs. Today Y-12 National Security Complex continues to operate as a manufacturing facility for components of nuclear weapons. To uphold national security, not all areas of Y-12 are open to the public.

Located within the New Hope Center at Y-12, the History Center houses a fascinating collection of informational materials and historical artifacts that chronicles Y-12’s early missions.