The Naval History and Legacy of the USS Maine

Trace the History of the USS Maine

You stand before the legacy of a name that defined an era of American naval power. While several ships have carried the namesake of the 23rd state, the history of these vessels spans the evolution of maritime technology and conflict. You can trace the lineage from the battleship whose sinking in 1898 precipitated the Spanish–American War to the substantial BB-10 battleship that sailed with the Great White Fleet before its decommissioning.

Explore the Evolution of Naval Might

The history available to you encompasses a wide range of naval capabilities. You can reflect on the transition from late 19th-century steel hulls to modern underwater capabilities, represented by the Ohio-class nuclear ballistic missile submarine currently in active service. The lineage showcases the progression from the battleship era—including the planned but cancelled Montana-class vessel—to the high-tech submarines of the present day.

Plan Your Visit to the Site

To make the most of your time, focus on the historical narrative of the name itself. Dedicate your visit to understanding how these specific ships shaped American history and naval architecture. The primary highlight is the transition from the 19th-century battleship that sparked a war to the modern nuclear submarine currently in service.

Explore Nearby Memorials

After you have finished exploring the history of the USS Maine, you can visit other nearby sites in Arlington, such as the John F. Kennedy Eternal Flame, Nurses Memorial, Pan Am Flight 103 Memorial, Rough Riders Monument, or the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.