Lecture June 5th 6:00 to 7:30

Conservation of the USS Monitor

Presenter: Will Hoffman, Director of Conservation & Chief Conservator

Mounts Bay Recreation Center

$10/person

Light supper, Gail's peppermint brownies, wine, beer, water etc.

When the sea claimed USS Monitor in 1862, the world lost an irreplaceable piece of cultural heritage. Fortunately, 140 years later, one-fifth of the ship was recovered from the depths of the Atlantic. These one-of-a-kind artifacts now reside within the Batten Conservation Complex at The Mariners’ Museum and Park, where they are undergoing conservation. In partnership with NOAA’s Monitor National Marine Sanctuary, we are proud to be the stewards of this revolutionary vessel.

USS Monitor represents the world’s largest marine archaeological metals conservation project. More than 210 tons of material were excavated from Monitor’s wreck site, all requiring care. Among the historically significant objects recovered are Monitor‘s revolving gun turret, two Dahlgren guns, and its steam propulsion engine. The Museum’s archaeological conservators tackle tons of challenges every day, working with materials ranging all over like iron, copper, wood, rope,  fabric, and rubber.

5.16.2025

This event is completely free, open to the public, and takes place rain or shine! All exhibits and timed activities are included with entry. Food and beverages will be available for purchase on site throughout the event. 

Advance registration is greatly encouraged and appreciated by VIMS.  When you register online you will receive via email a free ticket for admission to the Marine Science Day event, including all event programs, tours, and activities. If you are bringing friends or family please include a ticket for each person in your party (as well as yourself). Food and beverages will be available for purchase on-site.

  Kingsmill Yacht Club members should gather as a group around 10am in front of Watermen’s Hall. Jacque Carter will serve as group leader at the start and suggest talks, events, and lab locations that he thinks would be most interesting for our group.  Jacque could also answer logistical questions and other things of that nature.  

 Later in the day, we could all reassemble at an agreed upon location and time and prepare to leave for refreshments at the YROC restaurant and grill.

The VIMS map and final event program likely won't be available until early to mid-May, as things continue to evolve through the planning process - but the website has a good amount of information already for members of our group to get an idea of what will be going on around campus and what you may be most interested in seeing or doing.

VIMS is about a 20-30 minute drive from Kingsmill. The address is 1370 Greate Rd, Gloucester Point, VA 23062

"New Member" Registration

 One of the many benefits of being a KYC member, according to a new member: “Membership in KYC gains you access to over 300 yacht and sailing clubs across the country through the Yachting Club of America."