USS Massachusetts

The USS Massachusetts stretches 689 feet (210 meters) in length and features multiple decks filled with military equipment, naval artifacts, and restored living quarters. Nine 16-inch gun turrets dominate the deck, while interior spaces reveal engine rooms, galleys, medical facilities, and crew quarters that give visitors insight into daily life aboard during active service.

Commissioned in May 1942, the USS Massachusetts participated in Operation Torch in North Africa and later fought in Pacific campaigns including the Marshall Islands and the Philippines. After earning eleven battle stars throughout the war, the ship fired both the opening and closing 16-inch salvos of the conflict before arriving at Fall River in 1965 for permanent display.

This warship serves as the official memorial for Massachusetts residents who died in World War II and displays exhibits about naval service during the war years. Veterans organizations regularly use the ship for commemorative events and educational programs that teach naval history and honor wartime sacrifices made by service members and their families.

Located at Battleship Cove maritime museum, the vessel welcomes visitors daily from 9 AM to 4 PM with guided and self-directed tours through different sections. The museum is accessible from Interstate 195 with ample parking available on site, and self-guided tours typically take two to three hours to explore all accessible areas.

The ship remains permanently moored alongside four other National Historic Landmark vessels at Battleship Cove, forming the largest collection of World War II naval craft at a single location. Visitors can also explore the Soviet submarine Lionfish, destroyer USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr., and two patrol boats, all positioned within yards of each other along the Taunton River waterfront.

Location: Fall River

Inception: January 1, 1941

Length: 210 m

Reference: BB-59

Address: 5 Water Street 02721 Fall River

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 09:00-17:00

Phone: +15086781100

Website: https://battleshipcove.org

GPS coordinates: 41.70619,-71.16333

Latest update: November 28, 2025 10:30