The Submarine Force Library & Museum in Groton, Connecticut offers you a unique opportunity to explore naval history up close. Located on the Thames River, this fascinating museum houses the world’s finest collection of submarine artifacts, including over 33,000 items, 20,000 important documents, and 30,000 photographs. The museum is home to the USS NAUTILUS, the world’s first nuclear-powered vessel and the first ship to travel to the North Pole, making it a must-see attraction for history buffs and curious visitors alike.
When you visit this extraordinary destination, you’ll discover exhibits that bring submarine history to life. The museum is the only submarine museum exclusively managed by the Naval History & Heritage Command division of the Navy, which makes it a special repository for many submarine items of national significance. It’s easily accessible from Route 12 in Groton and provides an educational experience that both adults and children will enjoy.
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Submarine Force Library & Museum
The Submarine Force Library & Museum in Groton is a fascinating tribute to America’s underwater naval history. You’ll find this gem operated by the U.S. Navy, showcasing an impressive collection of submarine memorabilia, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the nation’s submarine service.
The museum’s crown jewel is the USS Nautilus, the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine. You can actually step aboard this historic vessel that made the first undersea crossing of the North Pole in 1958. Walking through its narrow corridors gives you a real sense of submarine life.
Beyond the Nautilus, you’ll discover exhibits that trace submarine development from the Revolutionary War to today’s modern fleet. The library section houses thousands of documents, books, and photographs that serve as important resources for researchers and submarine enthusiasts alike.
Your visit is best planned around their seasonal hours. From May through October, you can explore from 9am to 5pm (closed Tuesdays), while November through April hours are 9am to 4pm. The library specifically operates Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday with morning and afternoon sessions.
Rating: 4.8 (547 reviews)
Location: 1 Crystal Lake Rd, Groton, CT 06340
Contact: (800) 343-0079
Website: Visit Website
History of the Submarine Force Library & Museum
The Submarine Force Library & Museum has evolved from humble beginnings to become the premier repository for U.S. submarine history. Its transformation represents the Navy’s commitment to preserving this important heritage.
Founding and Early Years
The museum began as a personal collection. In the early days, submarine veterans and enthusiasts gathered artifacts, documents, and photographs related to submarine history. This grassroots effort grew steadily as more people recognized the importance of preserving submarine heritage.
By April 1964, the collection had become so significant that it was officially donated to the U.S. Navy. The Navy relocated all items to the Naval Submarine Base in New London, Groton, Connecticut. This move gave the collection a permanent home and official recognition.
The name “Submarine Force Library and Museum” was officially adopted in 1969, cementing its identity as the primary repository for submarine history and artifacts.
Significant Milestones
The museum has achieved several important milestones throughout its history. One of the most significant came when it became the only submarine museum managed exclusively by the Naval History & Heritage Command division of the Navy. This special status made it the official repository for many submarine items of national significance.
Perhaps the most notable addition to the museum was the USS Nautilus (SSN-571), America’s first nuclear-powered submarine. When you visit today, you can tour this historic vessel right on the Thames River.
The collections have grown impressively over the decades. Today, the museum houses more than 33,000 artifacts, 20,000 significant documents, and 30,000 photographs related to submarine history.
Exhibits and Collections
The Submarine Force Library & Museum houses a remarkable collection that brings submarine history to life. You’ll find historic vessels, rare artifacts, and comprehensive displays that showcase the evolution of submarine technology and the brave sailors who served.
Historic Submarines on Display
The crown jewel of the museum is USS Nautilus (SSN-571), the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine. This revolutionary vessel made history in 1958 when it completed the first undersea voyage to the North Pole. Today, you can walk through its preserved compartments and experience what life was like for submariners.
The self-guided tour takes you through different sections of this historic submarine. You’ll see the control room, living quarters, and engine spaces that once housed the revolutionary nuclear propulsion system.
Outside the museum, you might spot modern submarines from the nearby Naval Submarine Base New London crossing the Thames River, offering a glimpse of today’s submarine force.
Memorabilia and Artifacts
The museum displays thousands of artifacts spanning submarine history from the Civil War to modern times. You’ll find detailed submarine models showing the evolution of design from early submarines to today’s nuclear fleet.
Personal items from submariners, including uniforms, medals, and daily use objects, provide insight into life underwater. Historic documents, photographs, and technical equipment showcase submarine development and operations.
Interactive exhibits explain submarine systems and technology. Videos and audio recordings feature veterans sharing firsthand accounts of submarine service.
The museum’s research library contains over 6,000 volumes dedicated to submarine history. Though primarily used by researchers, you can make appointments to access this world-renowned collection for deeper exploration of submarine heritage.
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