Historical Ships Preserved by the United States Navy: Beyond the USS Constitution
The United States Navy does not merely preserve its famous historical ships like the USS Constitution; it maintains an array of vessels that offer rich insights into the nation's maritime history and heritage. In this article, we explore some of these historical ships and their current statuses.
Historic Naval Vessels Under NHHC Custody
As of the latest records, the Navyrsquo;s Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC) is responsible for the preservation of 48 ships that are no longer capable of active service. These vessels hold significant historical value but are no longer classified as operational assets of the U.S. Navy. The NHHC ensures that these ships are maintained in a preserved state to educate future generations about the Navyrsquo;s rich history.
Repurposed for Civilian Use
Some of these historically significant ships are converted for civilian use, as seen with Observation Island AG-154. This unique ship, originally a U.S. Navy vessel, was transformed into a merchant marine vessel. Though maintained by a civilian organization, the Navyrsquo;s custodianship ensures that these vessels retain their historical integrity.
Returned to Active Duty in Foreign Countries
In rare instances, the Navy has handed over historical ships to foreign powers for continued use. One notable example is the USS Atherton (DE-169), now serving in the Philippine Navy. This ship, originally part of the U.S. military, now plays an active role in the Philippine fleet, serving as a testament to international military cooperation.
Maintained Memorials
Some of the preserved ships serve as memorials, with a specific importance in educational and cultural contexts. A clear example is the USS Nautilus (SSN-571), the worldrsquo;s first nuclear-powered submarine, currently on display in Groton, Connecticut. Flown to the pier for public viewing, the Nautilus is maintained to an exemplary standard by the U.S. Naval Submarine Base New London, ensuring that this historic site remains both awe-inspiring and educational.
Changes in Ownership and Custodianship
The status of the USS Constellation (C-37) in Baltimore exhibits a complex relationship between the Navy and civilian organizations. Originally, the Constellation was a dedicated military vessel serving the Navy. While the ship itself is no longer under active military control, it is maintained to a high standard by a dedicated foundation. In some cases, such as when the ship requires dry-docking, the Navy still plays a part in its maintenance, ensuring that the Constellation remains in a state worthy of its historical significance.
Historical Accuracy and Changing Interpretations
Itrsquo;s important to note that historical interpretations can change over time. For instance, the USS Constellation, while still a significant symbol of maritime history, was once mistaken for a sister ship of the famous USS Constitution. Modern research has clarified that while the Constellation was built just before the Civil War, it was the last all-sail warship commissioned by the U.S. Navy. Its component parts, including some from an earlier version (Constellation II), may have been repurposed, reflecting the evolving nature of maritime construction techniques.
Hence, the maintenance and preservation of these historical ships are a blend of military and civilian efforts, ensuring that these vessels continue to story the untold chapters of the U.S. Navyrsquo;s storied history.