The Battleship New Jersey is one of the most iconic warships in United States naval history. Known for her extensive service and formidable power, this vessel now rests in a place where visitors can walk her decks and learn about the legacy she left behind. People often ask, Where is the Battleship New Jersey now? The answer lies on the banks of the Delaware River, where she serves as both a museum and a memorial. But her current location is only part of the story. To truly appreciate why the ship resides there, one must explore her past, the roles she played, and the journey that led her to her final mooring.
Historical Background of the Battleship New Jersey
Commissioned in 1943, the USS New Jersey (BB-62) is an Iowa-class battleship that served during several major conflicts including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and even the Lebanese Civil War in the 1980s. She was built at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, close to where she now rests.
During World War II, the ship supported operations in the Pacific, including battles such as the Philippine Sea and Okinawa. In Korea and Vietnam, she provided naval gunfire support, and her most recent combat service occurred in the 1980s off the coast of Lebanon. With her impressive service record, the ship became a symbol of American naval power and military history.
The Final Decommissioning
The USS New Jersey was decommissioned for the last time in February 1991. After decades of service, evolving naval technology rendered battleships less crucial to military strategy. However, due to her historical significance, the ship was preserved instead of scrapped.
After decommissioning, the battleship was stored with the Naval Inactive Ship Maintenance Facility. Discussions soon began about transforming the vessel into a museum. Several cities competed to become the ship’s permanent home, but one location had a particularly strong connection to her origin and service.
Current Location of the Battleship New Jersey
Today, the Battleship New Jersey is located in Camden, New Jersey. Moored on the Camden Waterfront along the Delaware River, she faces the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This location is deeply symbolic, as the battleship was built just across the river at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard.
The ship is part of the Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial, a nonprofit organization that opened the attraction to the public in 2001. Visitors from around the world come to Camden to walk the decks of this historic vessel, explore its interior, and gain insight into life aboard a battleship during wartime.
Reasons for Choosing Camden
Camden was ultimately selected as the ship’s permanent location for several reasons:
- Historical connection The ship’s origins at the nearby Philadelphia Naval Shipyard made Camden an appropriate choice.
- Community support Local officials and residents rallied around the idea of hosting the ship, demonstrating widespread enthusiasm.
- Tourism potential The Camden Waterfront already hosted other attractions, making it an ideal tourist destination.
- Logistical feasibility The waters of the Delaware River allowed for safe docking and access for visitors.
As a result, Camden not only honors the ship’s past but also benefits from the educational and economic opportunities it brings to the region.
What to Expect When Visiting
The Battleship New Jersey Museum offers self-guided tours, guided group experiences, and even overnight encampments. Visitors can explore a wide range of areas on the ship, including the command bridge, crew quarters, gun turrets, engine rooms, and mess halls. Exhibits along the way provide historical context, photos, and artifacts from the ship’s long career.
The museum also hosts events such as fireworks shows, reenactments, and educational programs. School groups, veterans, and history enthusiasts all find value in the immersive experience of standing aboard a real piece of American military history.
The Importance of Preservation
Preserving the Battleship New Jersey serves multiple purposes. First, it provides a tangible link to the past. Younger generations can learn about history not just through textbooks, but by walking the same spaces where sailors once lived and fought. Second, it honors the service and sacrifice of the thousands of men who served aboard her. Finally, it fosters a sense of national pride and remembrance of the Navy’s role in global conflicts.
Interesting Facts About the Battleship New Jersey
While many know her as the most decorated battleship in U.S. history, there are several lesser-known facts that highlight her uniqueness:
- She earned 19 battle and campaign stars for her service across four conflicts.
- She is the longest battleship ever built, measuring 887 feet in length.
- Her main battery consists of nine 16-inch guns capable of firing shells over 20 miles.
- She carried a crew of nearly 2,000 men during peak operations.
- Despite her age, she underwent several modernizations to include radar, missile systems, and updated electronics.
A Symbol of American Resolve
The ship’s continued presence along the Camden Waterfront acts as a symbol of strength, endurance, and the ability to adapt to change. From World War II to the Cold War era, the USS New Jersey played a critical role in American military strategy. Her transformation into a museum allows her story to continue, inspiring future generations with the values of courage and service.
So where is the Battleship New Jersey now? She rests proudly in Camden, New Jersey, just across the river from where she was built. This historic vessel, once a fierce instrument of war, now serves as a peaceful monument to American history and heroism. Visiting the battleship offers not only a unique educational experience but also an emotional connection to the past. Her journey from shipyard to battlefield to museum is a testament to the enduring legacy of the U.S. Navy and the importance of preserving our national heritage.