She is still a stunning beauty, even at 81—and what stories she tells. The battleship USS Wisconsin, now a living museum in downtown Norfolk, has a birthday this month, and she is celebrating with special features and new exhibits.
The Wisconsin had her keel laid in January 1941. She is 887 feet long and displaces a massive 58,134 long tons when fully loaded. Completed in time for World War II, the battleship conducted most of her sea trials in the Chesapeake Bay. She served in the Pacific during the war, and survived not only the enemy but also a typhoon that sank 3 destroyers. The Wisconsin served in the Korean war and in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, where she fought for the liberation of Kuwait. Today, she is berthed beside the maritime science center Nauticus in Norfolk. Many sailors who served aboard the battleship still serve as volunteers on the museum ship.
Wisconsin has been open to the public for years. Initially, visitors were restricted to the main deck and a few glimpses inside. Now, visitors can immerse themselves in ship life, exploring several decks inside and see staterooms and bunks, mess, and even the barber shop. Visiting the decks requires climbing and descending some steep stairs, so venturing off the main deck is not advisable for those with mobility issues.
Newly opened is the Naval Criminal Investigator Service (NCIS) office. If you plan ahead, you can meet active NCIS agents and hear their stories of life at sea. NCIS agents serve as law enforcement on board large Navy vessels (yes, Wisconsin has a brig, too). You can also get a glimpse inside one of the massive main turrets. These turrets housed sizable 16-inch guns. The controls look primitive compared to the technology we have today. Each turret required a crew of 79 men, though they could not have all been in the turrets themselves, as there is so little room. Accessing the turret also requires some stooping and climbing.
Catherine Taterway, Associate Director of Marketing for Nauticus and the Wisconsin, said, “We’re incredibly proud to celebrate 81 years of history aboard the Battleship Wisconsin. It’s a milestone that reminds us just how powerful her legacy is. If you missed the birthday festivities, there’s still plenty of time to experience Nauticus and honor the Battleship Wisconsin this summer!” Taterway notes that the battleship is open seven days a week.
Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown Norfolk, Virginia, offering a unique form of experiential learning for all ages. Through interactive exhibits and STEM to STERN programming, Nauticus uses the museum, the Battleship Wisconsin, sailing center, and Schooner Virginia to tell the story of the maritime environment, industry, and the military.
If you or your children have any interest in the Navy and such beautiful vessels, you need to visit the Wisconsin. It is living history of life at sea in the military. For more information, visit nauticus.org.
Note: Nauticus is especially looking forward to putting on its first Jimmy Buffett tribute concert this summer. On Saturday, June 21, Fins on the Fantail will feature live music, drinks, food, and sunset views from the fantail of the battleship.
