USCGC Ingham, Maritime museum in Key West, United States
The USCGC Ingham is a Treasury-class Coast Guard cutter moored in Key West harbor as a floating museum. The vessel measures 327 feet (100 meters) and has been restored to allow access to several decks, including the bridge, engine rooms, and crew living quarters.
The ship was built in Philadelphia in 1936 and served for over five decades in roles ranging from World War II convoy escort to search and rescue. After decommissioning in 1988, it arrived in Key West in 1989 and opened as a floating memorial.
The name Ingham honors Samuel Delucenna Ingham, a Treasury Secretary from Pennsylvania who served in the early 19th century. Visitors today see its cabins and compartments arranged as crew members used them during active duty.
The museum opens Tuesday through Friday from 10 AM to 4 PM and remains closed on weekends and holidays. Visitors can explore the ship independently or join guided tours that offer additional insight into life aboard.
The ship earned the nickname Queen of the Seas during its service and logged over one million nautical miles. Below deck, an original steam engine remains on display for visitors to examine up close.
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