The U.S.S. Texas, the last surviving battleship that served in both World Wars, is currently without a home. After years of being stationed in the Houston Ship Channel near San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site as a museum, the ship faced disrepair and the threat of sinking due to leaks. In 2023, the state Legislature allocated $25 million for repairs, and the battleship was moved to a dry dock near Galveston.
However, the future location of the battleship remains uncertain. The previous spot in the Houston Ship Channel did not attract enough visitors, leading the board of trustees to search for a new home. An agreement to dock the battleship along the north edge of Galveston Island was rejected by the local wharves board, causing speculation about where the ship will go next.
Chris Gray, a Gulf Coast reporter for chron.com, discussed the situation with the Texas Standard. The proposed location for the battleship was near Pier 21, next to the Elissa tall ship and the Harbor House hotel, along with restaurants owned by the Landry’s Corporation. While this location seemed ideal, there were concerns raised by Katie’s Seafood House and Seafood Market, leading to a public backlash.
The primary issues revolve around logistical concerns and potential damage in the event of a hurricane or tropical storm. The wharves board is worried about the ship not being properly moored and causing significant damage to the port area. Additionally, there are financial considerations, with repair costs estimated at $60 million and uncertainties about funding the move to a new location.
Despite the setbacks, there is still strong support for the battleship to remain in Galveston. While there is speculation about alternative sites such as Corpus Christi next to the Lexington, the preference seems to be keeping the battleship in Galveston due to its current condition and the logistical challenges of a longer journey.
As of now, there is no set deadline for moving the battleship from its current location in Galveston. The ship is expected to remain in the shipyard for at least another year until it is ready to be relocated. The board is exploring different options and potential agreements to secure a new home for the historic battleship.
Overall, the fate of the U.S.S. Texas remains uncertain, with discussions ongoing about its future location. The challenges of finding a suitable and safe spot for the battleship highlight the complex considerations involved in preserving and showcasing this significant piece of naval history.
