Exploring the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum is a panoramic experience, covering over 250 years of Portsmouth's history.

Come explore the fascinating history of America’s oldest and largest naval shipyard, which is located on the Portsmouth, Virginia's waterfront.

During the Revolutionary War, the shipyard was described by the British as “the most considerable one in America.” It’s been burned three times by retreating armies because of its strategic importance. Many historic ships have been built here, including the CSS VIRGINIA (EX-MERRIMAC), the first ironclad to engage in battle; the nation’s first battleship, the TEXAS; and the nation’s first aircraft carrier, the LANGLEY. The shipyard is also home to the country’s first drydock, which is still in use. At its peak during WWII, the yard employed nearly 43,000 workers.

Founded in 1767 as the Gosport Shipyard, its name was changed during the Civil War to the Norfolk Navy Yard, and later the Norfolk Naval Shipyard. (“Norfolk” was chosen because, at the time, there was already a Portsmouth Navy Yard in New Hampshire.)

The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum offers a unique perspective on U.S. history, from Colonial to Civil War times and beyond. You’ll find beautiful ship models, uniforms, military artifacts and exhibits
portraying life in 18th, 19th and 20th century Portsmouth.

For current programming information, please click here.

You may also want to visit the following sites:
Bob Zentz
Chevra Thelim
Hampton Roads Naval Museum
Moody Crewe
Nauticus
Naval History and Heritage Command
NOAA
Norfolk Navy Yard History
Olde Towne Portsmouth
PortsVaEvents
Starboards
Skipjack Nautical Wares
Tidewater Maritime Living History Association
YOUR757.com