USS Silversides: Preserving a WWII Legend
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
USS Silversides Submarine Museum Announces Major Dry Dock Preservation Project
Historic WWII submarine to undergo critical restoration for the first time in decades
Muskegon, MI — June 5, 2026 — The USS Silversides Submarine Museum today announced the launch of a major dry dock preservation project for the USS Silversides (SS-236), one of the most decorated submarines of World War II. This significant effort will ensure the long-term preservation of the vessel and safeguard its legacy for future generations.
In July 2026, USS Silversides will begin a carefully planned journey across Lake Michigan to Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, where she will undergo essential preservation work for the first time in decades.
For more than 80 years, USS Silversides has stood as a symbol of American courage, innovation, and sacrifice. Today, much of the vessel lies below the waterline, making it impossible to fully inspect critical structural components while afloat.
This complex, multi-phase project is being led by Valkor Energy Services, serving as the Project and Construction Management Team. Valkor brings significant experience in historic maritime preservation, having served as the project management and engineering firm for the multi-year restoration of the Battleship Texas—one of the most complex ship preservation efforts in the United States.
Once in Sturgeon Bay, restoration will take place at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding, a leading Great Lakes shipyard with the capacity and expertise to accommodate a vessel of Silversides’ size and historic significance. The submarine will be transported under tow by Basic Towing, Inc. of Escanaba, Michigan, an experienced marine transportation provider specializing in Great Lakes towing operations.
During dry dock, specialists will conduct a comprehensive evaluation and restoration effort, including hull cleaning, structural inspection, steel repair, and the application of advanced protective coatings to ensure long-term stability.
“USS Silversides is more than a historic artifact—she is a powerful, living connection to the men who served and the communities that supported them,” said Veronica Campbell, Executive Director of the USS Silversides Submarine Museum. “This project represents our commitment to preserving that legacy with care and integrity. By taking action now, we are ensuring that future generations can continue to experience her story firsthand.”
The submarine has not undergone full dry dock preservation in over 50 years, and delaying this work increases the risk of structural deterioration, safety concerns, and significantly higher repair costs. The estimated $3.5 million project is supported by a $750,000 grant through the Save America’s Treasures Grant Program, administered by the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.
Through this grant and the incredible generosity of our major donors and sponsors, this preservation project has come to fruition. The Museum Board and Staff sincerely thank those that stepped up to ensure the submarine’s lasting impact on future generations.
The towing of USS Silversides is tentatively scheduled for July 13, 2026, with a return anticipated in mid-October 2026. During this time, the museum building in Muskegon will remain open to the public, continuing to offer exhibits, programming, and educational experiences.
While USS Silversides undergoes preservation, the Museum is preparing to introduce new waterfront experiences for visitors, including plans for a visiting tall ship. A formal announcement with additional details is expected soon.
USS Silversides welcomes community members, donors, and supporters to be part of this historic effort. Contributions directly support critical preservation work and help ensure that this national treasure remains accessible for generations to come.
You Can Support the Legacy & Preserve History!
Donate to Dry Dock USS SILVERSIDES
The wartime submarines of World War II were not created by a single group, but by entire communities. Shipyard workers, engineers, welders, electricians, and designers, many of them women, worked around the clock to build the boats that carried submariners into harm’s way.
That shared effort is part of Silversides’ story.
Today, that same sense of collective responsibility continues. Preserving USS Silversides is a commitment that extends beyond the museum walls and depends on the support of those who value history, service, and sacrifice.
We invite you to stand with us during this pivotal chapter. Your contribution directly supports the dry dock work that will safeguard USS Silversides and ensure her story can be shared with future generations.
Help us Preserve History in honor of those who serve: past, present, and future.
Your donation helps restore USS Silversides Submarine and keeps the legacy of our heroes alive for future generations!
Preserving USS Silversides honors the World War II submariners who served at sea and the Americans on the homefront who supported them. More than a historic vessel, Silversides is a hands-on way for future generations to learn about WWII. Your support helps ensure this important history continues to be shared.
To protect USS Silversides for the future, the submarine will enter dry dock in August 2026. This process allows essential preservation work that cannot be completed while the vessel remains in the water.
Dry Dock Work Includes:
- Hull Cleaning: Removing invasive zebra and quagga mussels and other marine buildup.
- Detailed Inspection: Examining tanks, torpedo doors, and free-flood spaces, along with reviewing the condition of past dry dock repairs.
- Structural Repairs: Stabilizing or replacing deteriorated metal and treating corrosion.
- Protective Coating: Repainting the underwater hull with specialized coatings designed to protect Silversides for the next 15–20 years.
This work is critical to ensuring USS Silversides remains preserved as a lasting symbol of WWII maritime history.
- When will USS Silversides leave?
Silversides is scheduled to depart in August 2026 for planned preservation work.
- Is this permanent?
No. The submarine will return after maintenance is complete, with an expected return in November 2026.
- Why is dry docking necessary?
Dry docking allows crews to clean, inspect, and repair the underwater hull, work that cannot be done while the submarine remains in the water.
- Where will this take place?
The work will be done at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, the nearest shipyard able to handle a 312-foot submarine.
- How often is this required?
Submarines like Silversides require dry docking about every 15–20 years to prevent deterioration and avoid emergency repairs.
- What does it cost?
The estimated cost of the dry dock project is approximately $2 million.
- Will the Museum stay open?
Yes. The Museum will remain open and continue to offer exhibits, programs, and special events while Silversides is away.
