One hundred years ago the world was at war. Although the United States didn’t enter the Great War, as it was then known, until 1917, world militaries, including the U.S., had for some time been developing a whole menu of new weapons and tactics in preparation for war. One of the most important American accomplishments in the lead-up to war was the launch of a new and rapidly evolving type of battleship, including the USS Texas (BB-35), which was commissioned in 1914.
The USS Texas was one of many new Navy battleships intended to be definitive statements in the arms race with the great navies of the world, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan and Russia, all of which were building and launching such ships as fast as they could, with each one bigger and better than the last. The key characteristics of this new type of battleship included heavy armament, multiple main batteries with long-range guns of uniformly large caliber, and steam engines capable of propelling the ship for long distances at optimum speed.
WORLD WAR WARRIOR Battleship Texas took part in some of the most significant battles of the 20th century.
The USS Texas is 573 feet long, capable of displacing 34,000 tons when fully loaded. The heaviest armor plating protects its turrets, magazines and engine. It has ten 14-inch guns mounted on the deck capable of firing 1,500-pound projectiles every 45 seconds and hitting targets 13 miles away. And its triple reciprocating steam engines, which were originally fueled by coal, could propel the ship at 20.4 knots (24 mph). Initial fire control measures include two tower structures rising above the deck, giving spotters a vantage point to see the splash of projectiles in the water and enabling adjustments in aim.
STAND BY ONE’S GUNS Simulation firing of a 14-inch gun on the Texas.
Some modifications came early in the ship’s life. Eight three-inch antiaircraft guns were added in 1916. Also, advanced fire control devices were added to aid in the accuracy of the guns.
The USS Texas was in service until 1948, when it was transferred to the State of Texas. Even though it’s being restored to the spring 1945 era, visitors can board and experience the armor plating, engines and 14-inch guns that made this ship such a powerful entry into the World War I maritime arms race. It was modified and updated, in part, because its foundational battle-ready characteristics continued to keep it relevant as naval architecture and design improved over the years.
USS Texas is the last remaining of the World War 1-era battleships. The Texas legislature in 2015 approved $25 million for repairs that focus on improving the internal structure of the ship, while the state and other stakeholders explore a full range of options to care for the ship in a sustainable manner. The goal is to develop a plan that not only preserves the ship for another 100 years but also enhances the visitor experience at one of Texas’ most popular tourist destinations.
