The Battleship New Jersey: A Floating Museum
Residents of South Jersey and the Philadelphia area cross the Ben Franklin Bridge and glance along the Delaware River. They regularly notice the majestic city skyline on the Philly side…
Residents of South Jersey and the Philadelphia area cross the Ben Franklin Bridge and glance along the Delaware River. They regularly notice the majestic city skyline on the Philly side and the beautiful concert venue on the Jersey side, but how much do they know about the floating museum on the Camden Waterfront?
The Battleship New Jersey honors US veterans, offers valuable history lessons with tours and interactive experiences, and hosts events for the entire Philadelphia metro area to enjoy.
History of the USS New Jersey
The USS New Jersey is the most decorated battleship in US Navy history. It was built in the Navy Yard in South Philadelphia shortly after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, and it was thrust into commission in 1942 during World War II
According to the battleship’s website, the USS New Jersey has steamed more miles, fought in more battles, and fired more shells in combat than any other battleship in history during its active stretch between World War II and its last official point of commission in 1991.
Photo by Colin Newby | BBGI PhiladelphiaAdmiral Raymond A. Spruance made the USS New Jersey his flagship after his achievements as a hero at the Battle of Midway in 1942. The famed ship then played a crucial role in Iwo Jima, Okinawa, and other critical points in the Pacific Theatre during the American fleet’s fight against the Japanese.
The magnificent battleship also served the US Navy during the Korean War, the Vietnam War, conflicts resulting from the Cold War, and conflicts in the Middle East.
The Battleship New Jersey
The Battleship opened as a memorial in October 2001 in the wake of the 9/11 tragedy a decade after its final point of commission.
The distinguished piece of US history pays homage to the brave men and women who have served in the Navy.
Photo by Colin Newby | BBGI PhiladelphiaThe ship offers guided tours of its 887-foot long surface, close looks at the same weaponry used during active duty, and even overnight encampment to experience the same lodging and food as the sailors of past eras. Tours include four different categories.
- Introductory Tour
- Weapons & Navigation: including missile deck, the combat engagement center
- Crew's Life: including library, laundry center, mess hall
- Into the Citadel: including medical area, WWII radio room, engine rooms
The Battleship New Jersey also hosts private and public events. It’s open 363 days a year from 10am-5:30pm.
