The Submarine Force Library & Museum

The Submarine Force Museum is the only submarine museum operated by the United State Navy. The Museum contains the best compilation of submarine artifacts, documents, and photographs in the world. The collection was established by General Dynamics Corporation in 1955. The collection was donated to the Navy in 1964 and relocated to its present location in Groton, Connecticut at the Naval Submarine Base. The main exhibit area has two theaters that continuously run programs related to the history of submarines. The Medal of Honor Gallery is dedicated to the 8 submarine Medal of Honor recipients. One of the primary interests at the Museum is the Nautilus, the first nuclear powered ship and the first vessel to go to the North Pole. Visitors can board the Nautilus and experience what life was like aboard a submarine. The Nautilus was named a National Historic Landmark in 1982 and three years later named as Connecticut's State Ship. Prior to the building of the Nautilus, submarines could remain submerged for 12 to 48 hours. The Nautilus could remain underwater for up to two weeks. Anyone with the slightest interest in submarines and their history will be fascinated by the collection of over 33,000 artifacts, 20,000 pertinent documents, and nearly 30,000 photographs. The Museum is easily recognized by the display of midget submarines along the front walk of the building.