The historic Battleship Texas is still in the midst of a years-long multi-million dollar restoration project, right here in Galveston, Texas. Despite the towering presence of modern-day cruise liners, this mighty vessel stands as a reminder of its powerful past.
“It’s been recently reconstructed and restored,” mentioned Hunter Miertschin, the ship experience coordinator of Battleship Texas. This marks the first time the Battleship Texas Foundation has granted access to the most recently restored areas, aiming to replicate their appearance from D-Day in June of 1944. This particular moment holds great significance for the historic vessel, even though it was already 30 years old and had seen action during World War I.
“From 5:50 a.m. to around 6:23, this ship fired 255 rounds of these things right here,” Miertschin explained enthusiastically, pointing to a massive shell. “These 14-inch, 45 caliber shells.”
Leading us through the inner workings of the battleship, Miertschin eventually guided us to the pilot house, which had suffered damage from a fatal shell attack. “This is the exact spot we are standing in after being hit,” he remarked, his eyes filled with a mixture of pride and reverence.
Back onboard Battleship Texas, preparations are underway for a new public tour focusing on the Normandy invasion, set to begin on Sunday. The historic vessel is slated to relocate to a new permanent home at Pier 15 in Galveston after a hefty $60 million restoration project. Later on, we’ll explore the depths of the ship below deck. Not really sure why this matters, but it’s going to be quite the adventure.
The upcoming public tours will delve into the details of the Normandy invasion, with an emphasis on telling the story accurately. “We really want to make sure we get it right on these tours because it’s important to us,” Miertschin emphasized. “We are one of the last, or the last battleship that can share this story.”
Battleship Texas had fallen into disrepair while on display near the San Jacinto Monument, prompting its relocation three years ago through the Ship Channel and Galveston Bay to a shipyard. Its final destination will be Pier 15, where it will set sail for its new permanent home. Maybe it’s just me, but it’s quite the journey this ship has been on.
In conclusion, the restoration project of Battleship Texas represents more than just a refurbishment of a historic vessel. It’s a preservation of history, a tribute to the bravery of those who served on board, and a testament to the enduring legacy of this mighty warship. As it prepares to embark on its next chapter at Pier 15, Battleship Texas stands as a symbol of resilience, strength, and the power of remembrance.
