A proud and powerful ship that served in two world wars, the USS Texas is a piece of living history. When commissioned in 1914, this battleship was the most potent weapon in the world. Throughout the first half of the twentieth century, it remained at the cutting edge of military technology, one of the first US military ships to use radar systems or launch an aircraft.
The Texas is the last Dreadnought left afloat and has seen her fair share of adventures. Over the course of her career, she covered distances of over a million kilometres and joined battle all over the world. After retirement in 1948, this military monument was moved to the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site – just 30 minutes by car from downtown Houston - and has been a treasured public museum ever since. It is open to visitors on a daily basis and free parking is available on site.
Step into the shoes of a young sailor heading to war as you wander through the cramped living quarters, left just as they were in 1945. Explore the renovated post office and radio room, look around the steering room and admire the powerful engines. Make your way up on deck through the maze of corridors and try your hand at the massive anti-aircraft guns.
Whilst many areas of the ship have been restored, there remains a lot to do. This national treasure is starting to let in water and desperately needs refurbishing. On-going repairs are constant and parts of the vessel are now closed for good. To do your bit, book on to a Hard Hat Tour which will take you into areas of the ship you wouldn’t normally see. These fascinating visits are led by knowledgeable local volunteers and a portion of the proceeds of is put towards restoration work.
