Wisconsin Maritime Museum: Preserving Great Lakes Maritime History
Located in the Lake Michigan port and shipbuilding city of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Maritime Museum is dedicated to preserving and teaching about the maritime history of the Great Lakes and Wisconsin. Founded in 1969, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the region's maritime industries, featuring exhibits on ships, submarines, and boat-building.
Historical Background
The Wisconsin Maritime Museum was originally established as the Manitowoc Submarine Memorial Association. The museum's initial focus was on preserving the USS Cobia, a World War II submarine that played a significant role in naval history. The USS Cobia arrived in Manitowoc in 1970 and was restored to its former glory. In 1986, the submarine became part of the museum and was designated a National Historic Landmark, joining the National Register of Historic Places.
Key Historical Milestones:
- 1970: The USS Cobia arrives in Manitowoc and undergoes restoration.
- 1986: The USS Cobia becomes a National Historic Landmark and an integral part of the Wisconsin Maritime Museum.
- 1996: The USS Cobia is dry-docked for maintenance and repairs.
- 2022: The museum receives a $500,000 grant for additional dry-docking and maintenance of the USS Cobia.
Exhibits and Attractions
The Wisconsin Maritime Museum features a variety of exhibits that highlight the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes:
USS Cobia: The museum's star attraction is the USS Cobia, a World War II submarine. Visitors can take guided tours of the submarine, learning about its history and the role it played during the war. For an even more immersive experience, the museum offers overnight stays on the USS Cobia, allowing guests to experience life on a submarine firsthand. The USS Cobia is notable for having one of the oldest operational radar systems in the world.
Chief Wawatam Steam Engine: Another significant exhibit is the 65-ton Chief Wawatam steam engine. This massive piece of machinery provides insight into the engineering marvels of the maritime industry and the power required to propel large ships across the Great Lakes.
Shipbuilding and Shipwrecks: The museum offers detailed exhibits on the history of shipbuilding in Wisconsin and the numerous shipwrecks that have occurred in the Great Lakes. These exhibits include artifacts recovered from shipwrecks, models of historic ships, and interactive displays that educate visitors about the dangers and challenges of maritime navigation.
Model Ship Gallery: The museum's model ship gallery features intricately crafted models of various ships, providing a visual timeline of the evolution of ship design and construction. These models are accompanied by detailed information about the ships they represent and their historical significance.
Children's Play Exhibits: To engage younger visitors, the museum includes play exhibits designed to educate children about maritime history in a fun and interactive way. These exhibits encourage hands-on learning and exploration.
Temporary Exhibit Gallery: The museum also features a gallery for temporary exhibits, which rotate regularly to highlight different aspects of maritime history and culture. These exhibits provide fresh and engaging content for repeat visitors and cover a wide range of maritime-related topics.
Educational Programs and Community Engagement
The Wisconsin Maritime Museum is committed to education and community engagement. The museum offers a variety of educational programs and events designed to teach visitors about the maritime history of the Great Lakes:
- Guided Tours: In addition to tours of the USS Cobia, the museum offers guided tours of its other exhibits. These tours are led by knowledgeable docents who provide in-depth information and answer questions from visitors.
- Workshops and Lectures: The museum hosts workshops and lectures on maritime history, shipbuilding, and other related topics. These events feature experts in the field and provide opportunities for visitors to learn from professionals and enthusiasts.
- School Programs: The museum offers programs tailored for school groups, providing an educational experience that aligns with curriculum standards. These programs include hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, and guided tours.
Supporting the Museum
As a non-profit organization, the Wisconsin Maritime Museum relies on the support of its members, donors, and visitors to continue its mission of preserving and educating about maritime history. Contributions to the museum help fund the maintenance and restoration of exhibits, the development of educational programs, and the preservation of artifacts.
Conclusion
The Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, is a vital institution dedicated to preserving the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes. Through its extensive exhibits, educational programs, and community engagement, the museum offers a comprehensive and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a history buff, a maritime enthusiast, or looking for a family-friendly outing, the Wisconsin Maritime Museum provides a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating world of maritime history.
For more information on visiting, schedules, and events, please visit the Wisconsin Maritime Museum's official website at
www.wisconsinmaritime.org or contact them directly.