After more than three months in Wisconsin, the veteran submarine was towed across Lake Michigan following a $3.5 million preservation project at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding in Sturgeon Bay. It was her first comprehensive drydocking since July 1954—more than 72 years ago.
Supporters gathered along the waterfront to welcome the 312-foot Gato-class submarine back to her familiar museum berth.
The Work Beneath the Waterline
Although the fresh paint is easy to appreciate, some of the most important work happened in places visitors rarely see.
Drydocking allowed specialists to inspect the underwater hull, remove marine growth, clean accumulated sediment from ballast tanks, and repair deteriorated steel. Crews also addressed corrosion around torpedo-door spaces, sea chests, scuppers, and radar antenna mounts.
These repairs help protect the submarine’s structure and support her continued role as a museum vessel. For an aging steel boat, preservation requires much more than keeping the exterior looking sharp.
A Surprising Connection to Another Submarine
The project also uncovered a tangible link to another wartime boat.
Museum staff identified a ballast-tank flood valve bearing the name USS Trigger, Silversides’ sister submarine, which was built alongside her. Trigger was lost with all hands in March 1945.
The valve was removed and preserved for a future museum display. Its discovery adds another chapter to Silversides’ story and a reminder that historic vessels can still reveal unexpected connections decades after their service ended.
Bringing Back Her Wartime Appearance
The restoration also included work toward recreating Silversides’ appearance at the end of World War II.
According to vessel curator Scott Hardin, historical photographs are guiding the museum’s efforts to represent the submarine as she appeared when departing Guam in 1945. That includes her hull number and plans to restore the wartime scorecard markings by hand.
Keeping Naval History Within Reach
For those of us who enjoy submarine simulations and naval gaming, preserved vessels provide a connection to the real machinery and people behind the games.
A virtual patrol can introduce us to submarine operations. Walking through an actual boat gives those experiences another dimension: narrow passageways, crowded compartments, and the equipment that crews depended on far from home.
Silversides has been part of Muskegon’s waterfront since 1987. Her return protects that opportunity for another generation of visitors.
The submarine is scheduled to reopen for tours on November 7, 2026, following cleaning and reconnection of utilities. Check the USS Silversides Submarine Museum website before planning a visit.
Welcome home, Silversides.
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