When the Battleship North Carolina was commissioned in 1941, she was considered the world’s greatest sea weapon. The first battleship to be constructed in 16 years, she was fast and heavily armed. She received so much attention during fitting out and trials, she even earned a nickname – “Showboat.” Today, the North Carolina is still a showboat of sorts, allowing visitors a firsthand look at a vintage warship while also serving as a memorial to the thousands of North Carolinians who fought and died in World War II.
Berthed at Eagle Island across the Cape Fear River from historic downtown Wilmington, the Battleship North Carolina is the centerpiece of Battleship Park and the Wilmington waterfront. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a walk through history.
Beginning with the orientation exhibit in the Visitors Center, you’ll learn much about the 45,000-ton,
728-foot ship. Outfitted with nine 16-inch turreted guns, the North Carolina participated in every major offensive naval battle in the Pacific Theatre including Guadalcanal, Iwo Jima, Tarawa, Kwajalein, Okinawa and others. During her illustrious career, she earned 15 battle stars. Visual displays offering first-person accounts from those who actually served on the ship help bring her story to life.
A self-guided tour allows you to move at your own pace as you explore nine decks, visiting the bridge, crew’s quarters, sickbay, the galley, gun turrets and more. For the 2,000+ men on board, the ship not only provided their food and shelter, but was like a floating city with places to see movies, mail letters and get a haircut. On the main deck, see one of the few surviving Kingfisher float planes, a scrappy little craft used for submarine hunting and rescue missions. Plan on at least two hours for your tour.
Despite its many battles and a direct strike by a torpedo in 1942, only 10 of the North Carolina’s men were lost in battle. Some believe that the spirits of one or two still linger onboard and claim to have seen a young man peering out a porthole. Another has been spotted in passageways. Others have heard unexplained noises and seen objects move by themselves. In 2005, the Sci Fi Channel’s Ghost Hunters show investigated and seemed to confirm the eerie experiences.
The North Carolina was destined for the scrap heap in 1958 until the citizens of North Carolina launched a statewide campaign to bring her home. She arrived at her current berth in 1961 and was dedicated as the state’s World War II memorial in 1962.
The Battleship North Carolina is open every day of the year. For more information on hours, directions and special events, call 910-251-5797 or visit www.battleshipnc.com. |
