There are 2 South Dakota class battleships left today.
Overview of the South Dakota Class Battleships
The South Dakota class was a group of four fast battleships commissioned by the United States Navy in the early 1940s. These formidable warships were crucial assets during World War II, participating in major naval engagements across both the Pacific and Atlantic theaters. All four battleships completed their service and were subsequently retired.
Here's a breakdown of their disposition:
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Completed | 4 |
| Retired | 4 |
| Scrapped | 2 |
| Preserved | 2 |
Surviving South Dakota Class Battleships
Of the four ships originally constructed, two have been preserved and are accessible to the public as museum ships, serving as important historical landmarks.
The two South Dakota class battleships that remain in existence are:
- USS Massachusetts (BB-59): This battleship is permanently docked at Battleship Cove in Fall River, Massachusetts, where it operates as a museum ship. Visitors can explore its decks, turrets, and various compartments.
- USS Alabama (BB-60): Located at Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile, Alabama, the USS Alabama also functions as a popular museum ship, allowing guests to step aboard and experience a piece of naval history.
These preserved battleships stand as powerful tributes to the era of big gun warships and honor the sailors who served aboard them during their active duty.
