The Battleship New Jersey, one of the most decorated vessels in U.S. naval history, remains a focus of historic preservation and public interaction. Of late, the ship has remained in the spotlight because there have been certain incidents or renovations that have taken center stage for its memory.
It will indeed be a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the Battleship New Jersey in a festive atmosphere: samples of more than 50 different beers under the stars while classic rock airs live through the MGK House Band, Incognito. Taking place on the tented deck of the battleship, it also offers all attendees a free tour of the vessel opportunity to explore America’s most decorated battleship in a very casual atmosphere.
WMGK’s Steve Vassalotti, Matt Cord, and Andre Gardner will be there to talk music and beer with the patrons. The event is a rain-or-shine affair as there are contingency plans to ensure patron comfort in whatever weather conditions prevail. There is adequate nearby parking but for added convenience, the use of mass transit options such as the Riverlink Ferry or the Riverline Light Rail Train is encouraged.
This is based on the NJHC appropriating $5 m for the dry docking of the Battleship New Jersey. It forms part of the FY2024 Appropriations Act signed by Governor Phil Murphy. This grant thus represents the first time in 32 years that the battleship has undergone such extensive maintenance.
Governor Murphy explained that it is in the preservation of historic sites, like the Battleship New Jersey, that the state sees some important tourism opportunities. Expanding on this comment, New Jersey Secretary of State Tahesha Way included that New Jersey is committed to the preservation of its rich historic treasures.
The dry docking will involve the cleaning and repainting of the hull, repairing corrosion damage, and replacement of the ship’s anodes to ensure further deterioration does not take place. This proactive action is considered to save millions in future repair costs along with ensuring the longevity of the ship.
The Battleship New Jersey returned to its home pier in Camden last month after a 12-week, $10 million renovation at the Philadelphia Navy Yard. Work on this major repair project included putting a fresh coat of red paint on the hull, replacing its anti-corrosion system, and installing replacement anodes – all for protecting metal structures on the ship.
You can’t describe it unless you’ve been here when it’s lit up and underway, said Marshall Spevak, CEO of the Battleship New Jersey Museum. Several hundred people showed up to witness the historic moment, carnival games and food trucks lining the piers as live music added to the merriment.
During that time in dry dock, over 6,000 people from every corner of the world seized the seldom-granted opportunity to take tours underneath the ship, viewing the construction and history from a perspective that is simply quite different. The very first Iowa-Class warship ever to open such tours granted an all-around 360-degree view of its exposed hull and propellers.
With its 19 battle stars, the Battleship New Jersey remains a testament to the might of the American Navy for services rendered during some of the most critical eras in U.S. history: World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War. Renovations and ongoing efforts to preserve this storied vessel are sure to keep it educating and inspiring future generations.
This is a testament to the state’s commitment to preserving historical landmarks, said New Jersey Assembly Majority Leader Louis Greenwald, who praised the $5 million investment to dry-dock the battleship. The Battleship New Jersey is a bond from the past to the present tribute to those who served and a teacher of those who walk her decks.
Moored today on the Camden waterfront, the ship remains open for tours, offering a look backward through its storied past and its ongoing efforts for maintenance.