The USS Silversides, a beloved World War II submarine and Muskegon landmark since 1987, is preparing to sail home this weekend. After spending the summer in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, for its first full dry‑dock preservation in more than five decades, the vessel will depart Friday between 4:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. and is expected to arrive back in Muskegon Saturday morning, between 8:00 a.m. and noon, weather permitting on Lake Michigan.
Preservation effort restores a piece of history
The $3.5 million project, funded by a combination of federal grant money and private donations, focused on removing invasive zebra and quagga mussels, conducting a detailed structural inspection, repairing steel, and applying advanced protective coatings. Those coatings are designed to safeguard the submarine for the next 25 to 30 years, ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from this iconic vessel.
The preservation work received $750,000 from the Save America’s Treasures Grant Program, administered by the National Park Service and the U.S. Department of the Interior. An additional $2.6 million was raised from private and corporate donors, reflecting strong community support for the museum’s mission.
Community excitement builds
“JUST IN! All treats, no tricks: She’s coming home!” the USS Silversides Submarine Museum announced on its Facebook page, echoing the excitement of local families and veterans who have long identified the submarine as a symbol of Muskegon’s heritage. The museum is still $215,000 short of its fundraising goal, and it encourages residents to contribute via its website.
Local schools often organize field trips to the submarine, and the museum hosts educational programs that highlight the sacrifices of the men and women who served aboard her during the war. The return of the vessel promises to revitalize these programs and draw additional visitors to downtown Muskegon.
What’s next for the museum?
Once the USS Silversides is back at its home dock, museum staff will conduct final inspections to confirm the success of the preservation work. The museum plans to hold a public open house later this summer, offering tours, historic displays, and opportunities for donors to see the results of their contributions firsthand.
Community leaders have praised the project as a testament to Muskegon’s commitment to preserving its maritime history. “This submarine is more than a museum piece; it’s a living reminder of the bravery and ingenuity of our forebears,” said a city council member who attended the launch ceremony in Sturgeon Bay.
Residents who wish to support the ongoing preservation of the USS Silversides can donate through the museum’s website or attend upcoming fundraising events. The museum hopes the submarine’s return will inspire renewed interest in local history and encourage future generations to honor the legacy of those who served.
Original reporting: FOX 17 WXMI Grand Rapids (local) — read the source article.
