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NavSource Online: Battleship Photo Archive

BB-17 USS RHODE ISLAND

Radio Call Sign: November - Romeo - India

Virginia Class Battleship: Displacement 14,948 Tons, Dimensions, 441' 3" (oa) x 76' 3" x 26' (Max). Armament 4 x 12"/40 8 x 8"/40, 12 x 6"/50 12 x 3"/50, 4 21" tt. Armor, 11" Belt, 12" Turrets, 3" Decks, 9" Conning Tower. Machinery, 19,000 IHP; 2 vertical, inverted, triple expansion engines, 2 screws. Speed, 19 Knots, Crew 812.

The following analysis is by historian Chuck Haberlein, formerly of the Naval Historical Center:
According to "Register of Ships of the U.S. Navy, 1775-1990" (by Stephen S. Roberts & K. Jack Bauer), three of the BB-13 class had their names changed on 7 March 1901 (before any of them were laid down). Battleship # 13 was originally named New Jersey. Battleship # 14 was originally to be Pennsylvania, and Battleship # 16 was to be Virginia. After the renamings, Virginia and New Jersey had swapped places, Nebraska (originally intended for Armored Cruiser # 4) swapped ships with Pennsylvania. Again, according to that book: "The construction of the first two ships (ie BBs 13 & 14) was delayed because of Congressional limitations on the price that could be paid for armor plate and because of lengthy debates within the navy on the arrangement of the guns" (presumably the superposed 8"/12" turrets). (my comments are in parentheses). Same book's Armored Cruiser # 4 class entry states: "The refusal of manufacturers to sell armor within the price limits set by Congress delayed the ships' construction." Both classes (BB-13 & ACR-4) were originally authorized in Fiscal Year 1900, but the first of them were not laid down until 7 August 1901 (Pennsylvania, as Armored Cruiser # 4) and 31 August 1901 (Georgia, as Battleship # 15). It looks to me like there may have been some political log rolling involved in the renamings. PERHAPS (this is purely a guess) some Pennsylvania politicos wanted "their" name on a ship ASAP, so it was given to the first available keel. Then again, maybe builder location had something to do with it. Cramp built Armored Cruiser # 4, while none of the Virginia class battleships were built in Pennsylvania.

Operational and Building Data: Laid down by Fore River, Shipbuilding, Quincy MA., 1 May 1902. Launched 17 May 1904. Commissioned 19 February 1906. Decommissioned 30 June 1920. Stricken 12 July 1922.
Fate: Sold 1 November 1923 and broken up for scrap.
Click On Image
For Full Size Image		SizeImage DescriptionContributed
By And/Or Copyright
Keel Laying / Commissioning
1902 - 1906
BB-13 VirginiaNRBIGGEST OF ALL BATTLESHIPS: The Pennsylvania.
When Completed Will Be by Far the Most Dangerous War Vessel in the World.
DECK PLAN OF THE BATTLESHIP PENNSYLVANIA, SHOWING THE HEAVY AND LIGHT BATTERIES.
Two 12 and Two 8-Inch Guns in Each Turret. With One Coaling Could Steam to London and Return.
....Of the new battleships there will be three. The Georgia (BB-15) and the New Jersey (BB-16) will be the other two ships built upon the same model.		Image and text provided by Minnesota Historical Society; Saint Paul, MN.
Photo from The Saint Paul Globe. (St. Paul, Minn.) 1896-1905, 14 January 1900, Image 19, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-13 Virginia1.79kSPLENDID NEW BATTLESHIPS TO BE BUILT FOR UNCLE SAM
DESIGN OF NEW SISTER BATTLESHIPS VIRGINIA (BB-13) AND RHODE ISLAND (BB-17)
From the Navy Department Print. Reproduced for the First Time on This Coast.		Image and text provided by University of California, Riverside;
Photo from The San Francisco Call. (San Francisco [Calif.]) 1895-1913, 26 October 1900, Image 2, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-13 Virginia577kTHE NEW BATTLESHIP PENNSYLVANIA.
ONE OF FIVE TO BE BUILT FROM IDENTICAL PLANS AND FOR WHICH BIDS HAVE BEEN ASKED.		Image and text provided by Penn State University Libraries; University Park, PA.
Photo from The Star.(Reynoldsville, Pa.) 1892-1946, 19 December 1900, Image 7, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
FORE RIVER 1.86k HOW WAR VESSELS ARE BUILT AT THE FORE RIVER WORKS IN MASSACHUSETTS. Image and text provided by University of Utah, Marriott Library.
Photo from Desert Evening News. (Great Salt Lake City [Utah]) 1867-1920, 28 September 1901, Image 10 via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-13 Virginia666kDEVELOPMENT OF THE AMERICAN NAVY.
The final and up to date picture of the series shows the first class battleship Pennsylvania of the Virginia class, the designs for which are being completed by the Bureau of Construction and Repair.		Image and text provided by Library of Congress, Washington, DC.
Photo from The Washington Times.(Washington [D.C.]) 1901-1902, 09 March 1902, Magazine Features, Image 36, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
FORE RIVER NR THE FORE RIVER SHIP AND ENGINE COMPANY'S YARD SEVERAL WARSHIPS ARE IN COURSE OF CONSTRUCTION.
The frame and keel plates of the battleship Rhode Island (BB-17) were set and bolted in eight hours.		Image and text provided by Library of Congress, Washington, DC.
Photo from New-York Tribune. (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 17 August 1902, Image 19 via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
FORE RIVER 5.06k BUILDING UNCLE SAM'S BATTLESHIPS.
Two first-class battleships for the United States Navy, the New Jersey (BB-16) and the Rhode Island (BB-17) are being built side by side from the same designs and at the same time at the new Fore River shipyard, down in the southeastern corner of Boston harbor. The like is not being done in any other American shipyard, so that the visitor who takes pleasure in watching his white navy in actual process of construction may find here a suggestion of the formidable power of this new class of fighting ships that he can hardly look for elsewhere. 		Image and text provided by University of Nebraska-Lincoln Libraries, Lincoln, NE
Photo from Omaha Daily Bee. (Omaha [Neb.]) 187?-1922, 18 January 1903, Image 24, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov
BB-17 Rhode Island 1.539k Our Warship Construction is Being Strengthened To Carry Heavier Guns
A TYPICAL BATTLESHIP WITHOUT HER SUPERSTRUCTURE
Drawing of the Rhode Island (BB-17) Showing the Turtle back Protective Deck, Which Serves as a Foundation for the Guns and Armor.		Image and text provided by Library of Virginia; Richmond, VA.
Photo from The Times Dispatch. (Richmond, Va.) 1903-1914, 17 May 1903, MAGAZINE SECTION, Image 31, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-10 Maine
011060		 5.62k A modern battleship, with every part numbered and named, circa 1904.Photo from the Library of Congress. Reproduction Number LC-DIG-ppmsca-58681.
Photo courtesy of loc.gov.
Fore River
011667		 2.97k Post card of the building slips, Quincy, Mass. U.S.A.Photo courtesy of Fore River Shipyard Postcard Collection digitalcommonwealth.org.
Fore River
011668		 1.88k Post card of the crane at Fore River Shipyard, Quincy Point, Mass.Photo courtesy of Fore River Shipyard Postcard Collection digitalcommonwealth.org.
Fore River
011647		 2.24k New Jersey (BB-16) and the Rhode Island (BB-17) being built. Photo courtesy of Fore River Shipyard Postcard Collection digitalcommonwealth.org.
BB-17 Rhode Island252kBattle Ship Rhode Island (BB-17) at Fore River Iron Works Quincy, Mass. under construction at Fore River, Shipbuilding, Quincy MA., shortly before her launching on 17 May 1904.Photo courtesy of digitalcommonwealth.org
BB-17 Rhode Island NR Rhode Island (BB-17) launched, battleship stuck in mud. Quiet Affair at Quincy.Image and text provided by Library of Congress, Washington, DC.
Photo from New-York Tribune. (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 18 May 1904, Image 4, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-17 Rhode IslandNRNEW BATTLESHIP RHODE ISLAND (BB-17).
This shows as she will appear when completed, the new battleship Rhode Island, the launching of which has been delayed by labor troubles at the Fore River Ship Yard at Quincy, Mass.		Image and text provided by Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records; Phoenix, AZ.
Photo & text by Bisbee Daily Review. (Bisbee, Ariz.) 1901-1971, 08 June 1904, Image 8, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Newport News
011358		 3.37k General view of the shipyard, Newport News, Va., August 1904.
From left to right - Rhode Island (BB-17), Maryland (ACR-8), West Virginia (ACR-5), and SMS Vineta and Virginia (BB-13) .		 Photo I.d. courtesy of Daniel Hacker.
Photo LC-D4-18368 courtesy of Detroit Publishing Co via loc.gov
FORE RIVER 267k Stern of the Rhode Island (BB-17) on left, main mast of the New Jersey (BB-16) lying alongside pier prior to installation. Photo courtesy of digitalcommonwealth.org
FORE RIVER 294k New Jersey (BB-16) behind the Rhode Island (BB-17) fitting out & missing her main mast.Photo courtesy of digitalcommonwealth.org
BB-17 Rhode Island150kColor-tinted postcard published by A.C. Bosselman & Co., New York, and printed in Germany showing the Rhode Island (BB-17) fitting out at the Fore River Shipbuilding Company, Quincy, Massachusetts, circa 1905. The ship fitting out in the background, at right, is probably New Jersey (BB-16). Photo # NH 105667-KN courtesy of USNHC. Collection of Colonel W.T. Bigger, USMC (Retired).
BB 17
011711a		 1.02k Crew of the U.S. Battleship Rhode Island Rhode Island (BB-17). Photo courtesy of Fore River Shipyard Postcard Collection digitalcommonwealth.org.
BB 17
011753		 1.34k Either the New Jersey (BB-16) or Rhode Island (BB-17) being built. Photo courtesy of Fore River Shipyard Postcard Collection digitalcommonwealth.org.
Fore River
011649		 1.04k Fore River Ship Yards, dock front with giant lifting crane, U.S. battleship at end of dock under crane, Quincy, Mass. New Jersey (BB-16) and the Rhode Island (BB-17) being built.
Note the turrets in the foreground.		Photo courtesy of digitalcommonwealth.org.
Fore River
011650		 1.29k The shipyard from Weymouth, Fore River, Quincy, Mass.,1905.New Jersey (BB-16) and the Rhode Island (BB-17) being built. Photo courtesy of digitalcommonwealth.org.
BB-17 Rhode Island
011714		1.49 Rhode Island (BB-17) crew in winter gear, circa 1906. Digital Id LC-DIG-ggbain-01587 courtesy of loc.gov
FORE RIVER 294k Rhode Island (BB-17) ready.Photo courtesy of digitalcommonwealth.org
BB-17 Rhode Island 1.36k BIG BATTLESHIP FLOATED AFTER BEING AGROUND SINCE SATURDAY MORNING
Pulled Off Last Night By United Efforts of Powerful Tugs.		 Image and text provided by Library of Virginia; Richmond, VA.
Photo from The Times Dispatch. (Richmond, Va.) 1903-1914, 07 May 1906, Image 1, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-17 Rhode Island 2.19k GROUNDING WAS DUE TO ERROR.Image and text provided by Library of Congress, Washington, DC.
Photo from The Washington Times. (Washington [D.C.]) 1902-1939, 10 May 1906, Last Edition, Image 5, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Review
011701		1.93k Rhode Island (BB-17). A beautiful view of one of our new types of battleship just commissioned. Photo by Enrique Mueller Jr., from loc.gov courtesy of Joe Reese.
BB-17 Rhode Island NR UNCLE SAM'S GREAT SEA FIGHTER WHICH HAS JUST COMPLETED HER FINAL TEST
United States Battleship Rhode Island (BB-17)		Image and text provided by University of Florida.
Photo from The Pensacola Journal. (Pensacola, Fla.) 1898-1985, 18 August 1906, Image 1, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB 17
011706		 941k Pretty as a picture is Rhode Island (BB-17) in this stern starboard view. Photo courtesy of Fore River Shipyard Postcard Collection digitalcommonwealth.org.
Oyster Bay1.20kAN IMPOSING SPECTACLE
Birds-eye View Showing Position of Fleet in Naval Review at Oyster Bay.		Image and text provided by University of Utah, Marriott Library.
Photo & text by The Salt Lake Herald. (Salt Lake City [Utah) 1870-1909, 04 September 1906, Image 7, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Oyster Bay650kGORGEOUS NIGHT SCENE AT THE OYSTER BAY NAVAL REVIEW.
...There were forty-three fighting ships, ranging from the massive battleships, like the Rhode Island (BB-17), of 16.000 tons, costing $6,000, 000.... 		Image and text provided by Idaho State Historical Society.
Photo & text by The Caldwell Tribune.(Caldwell, Idaho Territory [Idaho]) 1883-1928, 10 November 1906, Image 3, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-17 Rhode Island 2.68k WHEN THE PRESIDENT REVIEWED OUR MIGHTY FLEET
A Camera Picture of the President's Wife, for Which She Did Not Pose. The Battleship, Shown Above, Is the Rhode Island (BB-17). She Has Just Fired a Salute to the President. 		Image and text provided by Minnesota Historical Society; Saint Paul, MN.
Photo from The Minneapolis Journal. (Minneapolis, Minn.) 1888-1939, 09 September 1906, Part I, News Section, Image 2, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-17 Rhode Island104kColor print of the Rhode Island (BB-17) from a photo by Robert Enrique Muller, sometime between 1906 - 1909. Photo courtesy of Michael Peter Borges.
BB-17 Rhode Island394kRhode Island (BB-17) circa 1907 view, possibly during the period when the battleship departed Hampton Roads 9 March 1907 for Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to participate in gunnery practice and squadron operations evolutions. USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker. Text courtesy of DANFS.
Almost Unknown592kCirca 1907 photograph of US Navy battleships of the Maine, Virginia & Connecticut -classes & other units of the Atlantic fleet at a Naval Review off Old Point Comfort.
Photographed by William H. Rau, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, courtesy of the Library of Congress & National Museum of the U.S. Navy via flickr.com.
BB-13 VirginiaNRGREATEST AMERICAN FLEET
EVER ASSEMBLED IN TIME OFPEACE OR WAR UNDER ONE COMMANDER
Great Fighting Sea Monsters At Anchor in Hampton Roads for Spectacular Contrast of U S Engines of War With Foreign Countries Death - Dealing Machines and for Most Powerful and Terrible Peace Plea. 		Image and text provided by Library of Congress, Washington, DC.
Photo from The Washington Times. (Washington [D.C.]) 1902-1939, 21 April 1907, Magazine Section, Image 47, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Hampton Roads
011557		1.45k U. S. Naval display, Hampton Roads, Jamestown, Virginia.
Postcard shows battleships in the Great White Fleet surrounded by smaller craft at Hampton, Virginia. Ships include the Georgia (BB-15), Maine (BB-10), Indiana (BB-1), Rhode Island (BB-17), New Jersey (BB-16), Virginia (BB-13), Ohio (BB-12), Minnesota (BB-22), Alabama (BB-8), Louisiana (BB-19), Iowa (BB-4), Tennessee (ACR-10), Connecticut (BB-18), Kearsarge (BB-5), Illinois (BB-7) and Kentucky (BB-6). 		Photo & Copyright 1907 by W. N. Jennings, Phila., via Library of Congress. Reproduction Number: LC-DIG-ds-02684 (digital file from left half of original item) LC-DIG-ds-02744 (digital file from right half of original item)
BB-17 Rhode Island398kStarboard quarter bow view of the Rhode Island (BB-17) in her original configuration as seen in this postcard drawn by Edward H. Mitchell Publishers of San Francisco, CA. Photo from the collection of Raymond Strout, courtesy of Jonathan Eno.
BB-17 Rhode Island 488k VESSELS OF THE NEW PACIFIC FLEET
Images during July 1907 from this paper included most of the Atlantic fleet to become the Pacific Fleet as is evidenced by this caption showing the Rhode Island (BB-17).		Image and text provided by University of North Texas; Denton, TX.
Photo from Palestine Daily Herald. (Palestine, Tex.) 1902-1949, 30 July 1907, Image 2, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-15 Georgia 450k WON BATTLESHIP'S RACE
PHILADELPHIA, September 24. Victorious in two races, the battleship Georgia (BB-15) arrived at League Island yesterday one hour and seven minutes after the battleship Kansas (BB-21), which started from Cape Cod four hours before its rival. In making this gain of 2 hours and 53 minutes on the Kansas, the Georgia humbled the battleship Rhode Island (BB-17) even more decisively by "sailing it below the horizon" in two hours.		 Image and text provided by University of Hawaii at Manoa; Honolulu, HI.
Photo by The Hawaiian Star. (Honolulu [Oahu]) 1893-1912, 11 October 1907, SECOND EDITION, Image 7, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Great White Fleet Cruise
Great White Fleet112kChart from a contemporary newspaper, showing the route to be taken by the Atlantic Fleet's battleships and their associated Torpedo Flotilla, from their December 1907 departure from Hampton Roads, Virginia, until their planned arrival at San Francisco, California, in the spring of 1908. Text below the chart indicates that it was published in mid-December 1907.U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph # NH 106219. Courtesy of the Naval Historical Foundation, Washington, D.C. Collection of Rear Admiral Harold M. Bemis.
BB-15 Georgia 3.96k U.S. battleships saluting the Mayflower, Hampton Roads, Va.
Photo shows the "Great White Fleet", which sailed from Hampton Roads on 16 December 1907, after being reviewed by President Theodore Roosevelt on board the presidential yacht Mayflower.
Appropriately, all the battleships in the immeadiate view are of the Virginia class. The Georgia (BB-15) is off to the left. The one in the middle is either New Jersey (BB-16), or Rhode Island (BB-17). At this stage of their careers, they were hard to tell apart and smoke is obscuring much of the bridge. The one at right is even more difficult to ID. A clearer photo is necessary to pinpoint which one this was.		 Photo & text i.d. courtesy of Richard M. Jensen.
Photo LC-DIG-det-4a15932 courtesy of catalog.archives.gov
BB-13 Virginia class236kStarboard side view of a Virginia class (BB-13 / 17) battleship and other ships all decked out with flags flying, possibly in Hampton Roads, Virginia, at the start of the "Great White Fleet" cruise around the world in December 1907. USN photo courtesy of Robert M. Cieri. Photo i.d. courtesy of Erich Coiner.
Great White Fleet 15.4k The "Great White Fleet" steaming in column, probably while departing Hampton Roads, Virginia, at the start of their cruise around the World, December 1907. Kansas (BB-21) is at left, followed by Vermont (BB-20). USN photo # N-0000X-001 courtesy of navy.mil. Photographed by C.E. Waterman, Hampton, Va. via Bob Canchola
Hard-Hat Diver 72k "Hard-Hat" Diver descending from the stern of a launch alongside a battleship, circa 1907-1908. Note the 6"/50 broadside gun mounted in the battleship's hull side.
This ship is either Indiana class (BB-1 / 3) or Maine class (BB-10 / 12) or Virginia class (BB-13 / 17) battleship.
This view may have been taken during the "Great White Fleet" World cruise.		 U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph # NH 106072. Collection of Chief Quartermaster John Harold.
BB-18 Connecticut83kProminent "Great White Fleet" Officers appear in this photo. From left to right & top to bottom:
First row: Captain McCrea, Captain Bartlett, Captain Kossuth Niles, of Louisiana (BB-19); Captain Hugo Osterhaus, of Connecticut (BB-18) & Captain Ingersoll.
Second row: Captain John M. Bowyer, of Illinois (BB-7); Captain Joseph B. Murdock, of Rhode Island (BB-17); Admiral Bob Evans; Admiral Potter, & Admiral Schroder.
Third row: Captain Alexander Sharp, of Virginia (BB-13); Captain Veeder, Captain Murrell, Admiral Wainwright, & Admiral Vaher.		Photo printed on a stereographic card, copyrighted by Underwood & Underwood, courtesy of Warren McLean.
BB-17 Rhode Island 709k CAPTAIN JOSEPH B. MURDOCK.
Joseph Ballard Murdock, commander of the battleship Rhode Island (BB-17) in the cruise of Rear Admiral Evans fleet to Pacific waters. 		Image and text provided by Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records; Phoenix, AZ.
Photo from Bisbee Daily Review. (Bisbee, Ariz.) 1901-1971, 04 January 1908, Image 1, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-18 Connecticut99kCommanding officers of most of the fleet's ships, photographed in 1908. Those present include (Seated, left to right): Captain Hugo Osterhaus, of Connecticut (BB-18); Captain Kossuth Niles, of Louisiana (BB-19); Captain William P. Potter, of Vermont (BB-20); Captain John Hubbard, of Minnesota (BB-22); Captain Joseph B. Murdock, of Rhode Island (BB-17); Captain Charles E. Vreeland, of Kansas (BB-21).
Standing, left to right): Captain Hamilton Hutchins, of Kearsarge (BB-5); Captain Frank E. Beatty, of Wisconsin (BB-9); Captain Reginald F. Nicholson, of Nebraska (BB-14); Captain Thomas B. Howard, of Ohio (BB-12); Captain William H.H. Southerland, of New Jersey (BB-16); Captain Walter C. Cowles, of Kentucky (BB-6); Captain John M. Bowyer, of Illinois (BB-7); Captain Alexander Sharp, of Virginia (BB-13); Lieutenant Commander Charles B. McVay, of Yankton.		Naval History and Heritage Command # NH 59552.
Great White Fleet112kChart from a contemporary newspaper, showing the route of the Atlantic Fleet's battleships from their 29 January 1907 departure from Trinidad until their arrival at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on 12 January 1908. It emphasizes the offshore course taken to avoid strong westerly currents off the northeastern coast of South America.U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph # NH 106221. Courtesy of the Naval Historical Foundation, Washington, D.C. Collection of Rear Admiral Harold M. Bemis.
G. Dall'aros1.39kU.S. Atlantic Fleet Battleships at Anchor. Painting by G. Dall'aros, 1908, depicting three battleships of the "Great White Fleet" in a Brazilian anchorage, January 1908. One of the battleships has a collier alongside. The Brazilian cruiser Almirante Tamandare is in the left foreground. Courtesy of Secretary of the Navy J. William Middendorf, 1977.
USN photo # NH 85503-KN courtesy of the Library of Congress, from the National Museum of the U.S. Navy, courtesy of flickr.com.
John Charles Roach2.12k"Great White Fleet" Painting by John Charles Roach, 1984, depicting U.S. Atlantic Fleet battleships steaming at sea during their 1907-1909 World cruise.USN photo # NH 95513-KN courtesy of the U.S. Navy Art Collection, Washington, D.C. Naval History and Heritage Command Photograph via the Library of Congress, from the National Museum of the U.S. Navy, courtesy of flickr.com.
BB-17 Rhode Island 682k THE GREAT AMERICAN PACIFIC SQUADRON.
The vessels prominent in the picture are the Battleships Washington (AC-11), Tennessee (AC-10), Rhode Island (BB-17) and Torpedo Boat Destroyer.		Image and text provided by University of Oregon Libraries; Eugene, OR.
Photo from The Newsrecord. (Enterprise, Wallowa County, Or.) 1907-1910, 06 February 1908, Image 6, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Straits of Magellan290k The "Great White Fleet" in the Straits of Magellan, 1908, from a painting by Henry Reuterdahl.Photograph courtesy of Pieter Bakels.
Great White Fleet129kChart from a contemporary newspaper, showing the movements of the Atlantic Fleet's battleships from their 8 February 1908 passage of the western part of the Straits of Magellan until their arrival at Callao, Peru, on 20 February 1908.U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph # NH 106227b. Courtesy of the Naval Historical Foundation, Washington, D.C. Collection of Rear Admiral Harold M. Bemis.
BB-17 Rhode IslandNRTOW TARGETS AMID SHOWER OF SHOT
PHOTO FROM FIGHTING TOP SHOWS GUNS IN ACTION, LOWER DIAGRAM, SKETCHED AT BAY, DESCRIBES TARGETS USED AND DANGEROUS GAME OF TOWING THEM BEFORE YAWNING GUNS
The accompany remarkable photograph was taken from the fighting top of the battleship Rhode Island (BB-17) during target practice on the range and shows precisely the action of an eight-inch gun in the process of firing. The camera was snapped at the instant the big gun let go her charge. But the gun was faster than the lens, and in the picture is also shown the recoil, the muzzle of the gun being a foot or so back of that of the parallel gun.
The sketch attached to the photograph reproduction shows the targets at which the guns are fired..... 		Image and text provided by Washington State Library; Olympia, WA.
Photo & text by The Spokane Press. (Spokane, Wash.) 1902-1939, 21 March 1908, Image 1, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-18 Connecticut185kMAGDELENA BAY, WHERE THE FLEET ASSEMBLES FOR TARGET PRACTICE.
INTENSE RIVALRY OF CREWS IN MAKING NEW RECORDS WITH THE BIG GUNS
Seven inch gun drill aboard the Connecticut (BB-18) in Magdalena Bay, Mexico on 12 March 1908.		PDF Image and text provided by University of California, Riverside;
Photo & text by The San Francisco Call.(San Francisco [Calif.]) 1895-1913, 29 March 1908, Image 5, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
San Pedro Harbor
011719		1.14k Rhode Island (BB-17) steaming into San Pedro Harbor on 18 April 1908. Photo from the collection of the Vallejo Naval & Historical Museum via Darryl L. Baker.
San Pedro Harbor
011870g		1.14k Connecticut (BB-18) leading Great White Fleet into San Pedro Harbor 18 April 1908. Photo from the collection of the Vallejo Naval & Historical Museum via Darryl L. Baker.
Fleet at Long Beach 507k The fleet at San Diego, Calif., 5, May 1908.
What looks like two Connecticut class (BB-18 / 22 & 25) battleships to the left; a Virginia class (BB-13 / 17) battleship in the center with what might be three other Connecticut class (BB-18 / 22 & 25) battleships in the immediate distance; two Illinois class (BB-7 / 9) battleships are on the right corner, behind them are the two Kearsarge class (BB-5 / 6) battleships and a Virginia class (BB-13 / 17) or Connecticut class (BB-18 / 22 & 25) battleship in the right corner of the photo. 		Library of Congress photo # pan 6a33626,by W. D. Lambert; submitted by Tom Kermen.
BB-18 Connecticut3.71kUnited States fleet, San Francisco Bay. Photo pan 6a33217 courtesy of loc.gov via Detroit Photographic Company.
BB-5 Kearsarge 573k Atlantic Fleet entering Golden Gate 6th May 1908. Library of Congress photo # pan 6a33669, from the Panoramic View Co., Chas. Z. Bailey, Mgr., Los Angeles, Cal. submitted by Tom Kermen.
BB-16 New Jersey 98k Leading ship of a column of Atlantic Fleet battleships, photographed while steaming through the Golden Gate, en route to an anchorage in San Francisco Bay, May 1908. This ship is either New Jersey (BB-16) or Rhode Island (BB-17). U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph # NH 106095-A. Collection of Chief Quartermaster John Harold.
Golden Gate 58k Atlantic Fleet battleships steaming through the Golden Gate, en route to their anchorage in San Francisco Bay, May 1908. The lead ship is either New Jersey (BB-16) or Rhode Island (BB-17). U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph # NH 106095. Collection of Chief Quartermaster John Harold.
BB-12 Ohio 82k "Physical culture". Sailors perform calisthenics on a battleship's quarterdeck, during the "Great White Fleet" World cruise, circa 1907-1909. In the background, a Virginia class (BB-13 / 17) battleship is pitching into a swell. She is either Nebraska (BB-14), New Jersey (BB-16) or Rhode Island (BB-17). U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph # NH 106069. Collection of Chief Quartermaster John Harold.
BB-17 Rhode IslandNRA CLOSE SHAVE FOR UNCLE SAM'S BATTLESHIP FLEET: NEPTUNE INITIATES ALL TARS WHO CROSS THE EQUATOR FOR THE FIRST TIME
Crossing the line on board the Rhode Island (BB-17): A neophyte describing a curve on entering the tank. When the United States Pacific squadron crosses the line Neptune, accompanied by Amphritrite and a retinue, comes on board and, initiates all the sailors who nave not before crossed the Equator. The ceremonies are of the usual horrible kind. When the king and queen have taken their seats, the queen smoking cigars, the candidates are mustered by open list,turned over to Neptune's dentists, ducked in an unsavory tank, and then delivered to the barber for the statutory shave. The lather is black and is applied with a paint brush; the razor is a stout oak stick. At the end each initiate receives an illuminated certificate signed "Neptunus Rex." 		Image and text provided by Library of Congress, Washington, DC.
Photo from New-York Tribune.(New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 19 July 1908, Image 50, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Rhode Island 444k 20 August - 6 September 1908: GWF visitor Rhode Island (BB-17) shows the Stars and Stripes to Sydney.
To the left of the image we see the Royal Navy Australia Station cruisers HMS Encounter and Pioneer [ both RAN later] and the Station flagship HMS Powerful laying at anchor off Cremorne Point. Connecticut (BB-18) had moored off Kiribilli Point, just west of this, and eventually the 16 U.S. battleships formed two lines of eight down the Harbour. Fort Denison can be seen over Rhode Island's quarter deck.		 Photo: NSW Government Printing Office, it appeared in Ross Gillett and Michael Melliar-Phelps's book 'A Century of Ships in Sydney Harbour' [Rigby, Sydney 1980] pp38-39 via Kimberley Dunstan & Fabia Pena & flickr.com.
Great White Fleet 104k Post card welcoming the "Great White Fleet" to Australia, circa August-September 1908. U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph # NH 106181-KN. Courtesy of Mrs. Ruth Mayfield, 1973.
GWF901kTHE ATLANTIC FLEET OF THE UNITED STATES NAVY
From Official Bulletin of Bureau of Navigation showing the Vessels off the Port of Callao practicing the Gridiron maneuver. This is considered by Naval authorities to be the most dangerous evolution in steam tactics and its improper execution caused the loss of HMS Victoria with 798 men in 1893.
Picture faithfully represents the entire Fleet in official formation and vessels can be identified by numbers corresponding to table appended:
First Division
1. Connecticut (BB-18), Flagship, 2. Kansas (BB-21), 3. Vermont (BB-20), 4. Louisiana (BB-19),
Second Division
5. Georgia (BB-15), Flagship, 6. New Jersey (BB-16), 7. Rhode Island (BB-17), 8. Virginia (BB-13),
18 Torpedo Flotilla
Whipple (DD-15), Truxtun (DD-14), Lawrence (DD-8), Stewart (DD-13), Hopkins (DD-6) & Hull (DD-7)
Third Division
9. Minnesota (BB-22), Flagship, 10. Ohio (BB-12), 11. Missouri (BB-11), 12. Maine (BB-10)
17. Yankton {Special Dispatch Tender}
Fourth Division
13. Alabama (BB-8), Flagship 14. Illinois (BB-7), 15. Kearsarge (BB-5), 16. Kentucky (BB-6)
19. Auxiliaries
Glacier, [refrigerating ship], Panther,[repair ship],Culgoa,[storeship] & Arethusa,[torpedo flotilla tender]. 		Image and text provided by Library of Congress, Washington, DC.
Photo & text by The National Tribune. (Washington, D.C.) 1877-1917, 24 September 1908, Image 3, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Great White Fleet 100k Postcard published in Japan to commemorate the U.S. Atlantic Fleet's visit there in October 1908. This card features pictures of the Fleet's sixteen battleships, plus images of three Japanese ladies, plus flags and symbols of the United States and Japan. U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph # NH 106114-KN. Collection of Chief Quartermaster John Harold.
Pacific Fleet
011509p		1.20k The Pacific Fleet on its visit to Portland, Oregon showing the Georgia (BB-15), New Jersey (BB-16), Virginia (BB-13), and Rhode Island (BB-17) battleships underway, circa 30 December 1908. Photo contributed by the Keystone View Company via Library of Congress. Reproduction Number: LC-DIG-stereo-1s14833.
BB-16 New Jersey 1.44kCUTTING THE SEAS LIKE KNIVES IN HOT BUTTER.
Remarkable new snapshot photograph of three of the giant ships which are approaching Hampton Roads, after 42,227 mile trip round the world. In the picture the New Jersey (BB-16) is leading the Rhode Island (BB-17) and Georgia (BB-15). The estimated speed of the ships, at the time the camera shutter snapped, was 19 knots an hour, or about 22 miles.		Image and text provided by Washington State Library; Olympia, WA.
Photo by The Spokane Press. (Spokane, Wash.) 1902-1939, 20 February 1909, Image 1, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-17 Rhode Island506kSubsequently entering New York Navy Yard for overhaul, Rhode Island (BB-17) was assigned 8 March 1909 to Division 3, Squadron 1. She is seen here at Brooklyn Navy Yard.Text courtesy of DANFS.
National Archives Identifier: 6880365
Agency-Assigned Identifier: F1033
Photo courtesy of catalog.archives.gov
1.21k Bow view of the Rhode Island (BB-17) at Navy Yard NY on 8 July 1909. National Archives Identifier: 45512821
Local Identifier: 165-WW-335A-57
Photo courtesy of catalog.archives.gov
Hudson- Fulton Celebration 805k Panoramic view of battleships in the Hudson River for the Hudson-Fulton Celebration, 25 September - 9 October 1909. Photo det pan 6a16597 courtesy of loc.gov via Detroit Photographic Company.
BB-17 Rhode Island987kRhode Island (BB-17) in the Hudson River for the Hudson-Fulton Celebration, 25 September - 9 October 1909. Photo det 4a19510 courtesy of loc.gov via Detroit Photographic Company.
BB-17171kBow on view of the Rhode Island (BB-17) underway. Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division, LC-DIG-hec-03339v, courtesy of Mike Green.
BB-17 Rhode Island608kRhode Island (BB-17) in 1910.Photograph by Enrique Muller.
National Archives Identifier: 45512819
Local Identifier: 165-WW-335A-56
Photo courtesy of catalog.archives.gov
BB-171.38kRhode Island (BB-17) at dock at Navy Yard NY on 21 July 1910.National Archives Identifier: 45512750
Local Identifier: 165-WW-335A-26
Photo courtesy of catalog.archives.gov
BB-17 Rhode IslandNRBATTLESHIPS OF THE NORTH ATLANTIC FLEET COMING UP THE RIVER.
THE RHODE ISLAND (BB-17) UNDER THE BROOKLYN BRIDGE.
THE DREADNOUGHT DELAWARE (BB-28) BIGGEST SHIP IN OUR NAVY
THE CONNECTICUT (BB-18) BETWEEN THE BATTERY AND THE STATUE OF LIBERTY		Image and text provided by Library of Congress, Washington, DC.
Photo & text by New-York Tribune. (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 28 September 1910, Image 7, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB 14932kMAKE GREAT IMPRESSION ABROAD
Rhode Island (BB-17) and other fleet units were reviewed 2 November 1910 at Boston by President Taft prior to their departure for European waters. In an elaborate battle and scouting problem, the fleet continued its training, Rhode Island subsequently visiting Gravesend, England, before returning to Guantanamo Bay 13 January 1911.
The battleship forward is the Nebraska (BB-14), and astern is seen the Rhode Island.		 Image and text provided by DANFS & University of Utah, Marriott Library
Photo by The Salt Lake Herald-Republican. (Salt Lake City, Utah) 1909-1918, 25 December 1910, Section One, Image 7, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Guantanamo Bay, Cuba62kPanoramic image (made from two individual views), showing U.S. Atlantic Fleet battleships and auxiliaries in Guantanamo Bay, circa the early or middle 1910s.
Ships present include (in left half of image): four Virginia class (BB-13 / 17) battleships, one South Carolina class (BB-26 / 27) battleship, one Delaware class (BB-28 / 29) battleship, two unidentified auxiliaries and a collier; (in right half of image): all six Connecticut class (BB-18 / 22 & 25) battleships, both Mississippi class (BB-23 / 24) battleships, two unidentified auxiliaries, hospital ship Solace (AH-2) and a gunboat. 		Naval History and Heritage Command # NH 104537. Photo from the 1909-1924 album of Vice Admiral Olaf M. Hustvedt, USN (Retired). Courtesy of Rick Hauck, 2006.
John Hood177kCaptain John Hood was the Commanding Officer of the battleship Rhode Island (BB-17) of the Atlantic Fleet in 1910 - 1911. Photo #15824v courtesy of the Library of Congress via Bill Gonyo.
BB-17 Rhode IslandNRThe prize winning Rhode Island Delegation, attired as United States marines, accompanied by a float representing the battleship Rhode Island (BB-17), is shown in the accompanying illustration.
Image and text provided by Rutgers University Libraries.
Photo & text by Perth Amboy Evening News. [volume] (Perth Amboy, N.J.) 1903-1959, 15 July 1911, Last Edition, Image 5, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Various Views of the 1912 Naval Review on the Hudson
Review
012173m		4.51k Mobilization of Atlantic Fleet at New York, 12 - 15 October 1912. Photo courtesy of David Fisher.
Review
012173		1.36k U.S. Battleship Fleet during the 1912 Naval Review on the Hudson.
The nearest ship half visible on the right is the New Hampshire (BB-25) based on the distinctive half-cased stacks. The two sister ships behind her are not clear enough to specifically ID. The fourth ship is one of the Mississippi class, but again, not clear enough to ID.		 Photo i.d. via Richard M. Jensen.
Photo courtesy of David Fisher.
Review
012173d		1.38k Small boats join during the 1912 Naval Review on the Hudson. Photo courtesy of David Fisher.
Almost UnknownNRSCENE OF UNUSUAL BEAUTY WHEN FLEET AND SHORE WERE ILLUMINATED BY MANY THOUSANDS OF FLAMING ELECTRIC BULBS
NEW YORK, Oct. 16—Pen cannot describe and even photography is inadequate in depicting the splendor of the scene at night during the visit of the fleet to this city. Thousands and thousands of electric lights were hung along Riverside drive, which parallels the Hudson river for miles, and all of the vessels in the fleet were outlined by lines of gleaming lamps. In the accompanying picture the soldiers’ and sailors’ monument appears in the foreground with the curved line of Riverside drive at the left. Several battleships are shown in the river, with the lights on the New Jersey shore in the distance. 		Image and text provided by Ohio Historical Society, Columbus, OH.
Photo by The Democratic Banner.(Mt. Vernon, Ohio) 1898-192?, 18 October 1912, Image 1, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-17202kCaptain Clarence Stewart Williams commanded the battleship Rhode Island (BB-17) from 02.01.1913 - 07.01.1915, including operations during the Mexican Campaign of 1914. During World War I, he served as chief of staff of the Battleship Force, Atlantic Fleet and as commander of Battleship Division 8; Atlantic Fleet. Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress via Bill Gonyo.
BB-17 Rhode Island38kIlluminated with electric lights for a festive occasion, circa 1913. Photographed by Sargent.
Naval History and Heritage Command # NH 101089, from the album of Francis Sargent; courtesy of Commander John Condon, 1986.
Image and text provided by Ohio Historical Society, Columbus, OH.
Photo & text by The Democratic Banner. (Mt. Vernon, Ohio) 1898-192?, 18 October 1912, Image 1, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-16-17-1862kAtlantic Fleet Battleships steaming down Chesapeake Bay after visiting Annapolis, Maryland, circa 1913. Photographed by Sargent, probably from on board Rhode Island (BB-17). Next ship ahead is New Jersey (BB-16), with Georgia (BB-15) ahead of her. Six "Dreadnought" type battleships are leading the column.From the album of Francis Sargent; Courtesy of Commander John Condon, 1986 / Naval History and Heritage Command # NH 101064.
BB-17 Rhode Island90k"Just as happy after coaling": Crewmen clowning for the camera after coaling ship, circa 1913. Photographed by Sargent. Note coal dust on nearly everyone, and goggles worn by a few.Naval History and Heritage Command # NH 101114, from the album of Francis Sargent; courtesy of Commander John Condon, 1986.
BB-17 Rhode Island118k"The first swimming call": Crewmen swim over the battleship's side after coaling, circa 1913. Note dirty faces of swimmers, and whaleboat standing by on lifeguard duty. Photographed by Sargent.Photo Naval History and Heritage Command # NH 101120, from the album of Francis Sargent; courtesy of Commander John Condon, 1986.
BB-17 Rhode Island757kSome of the crew of the Rhode Island (BB-17) enjoying swimming.Photographer: Enrique Muller, Jr.
National Archives Identifier: 45512202
Local Identifier: 165-WW-332D-49.
Photo courtesy of catalog.archives.gov
BB-17 Rhode Island106kMen of the battleship's First Division pose before the forward 12" & 8" superposed gun turret, circa 1913. Note goat in front center. Photographed by Sargent.Naval History and Heritage Command # NH 101126, from the album of Francis Sargent; courtesy of Commander John Condon, 1986.
BB-17 Rhode Island66k"Our Mess cooks": Three crewmen prepare to peel potatoes, circa 1913. Photographed by Sargent.Photo Naval History and Heritage Command # NH 101129, from the album of Francis Sargent; courtesy of Commander John Condon, 1986.
BB-17 Rhode Island101k View in the torpedo room of the Rhode Island (BB-17), showing underwater torpedo tubes, Bliss-Leavitt 21-inch torpedoes and their handling gear, circa 1913. Photo # NH 101087 courtesy of USNHC. From the album of Francis Sargent; Courtesy of Commander John Condon, 1986.
Target Rafts 131k Towing Target # 23, after being hit by gunfire from Virginia (BB-13) during Atlantic Fleet gunnery practice, circa 1913. Photographed by Sargent, probably from Rhode Island (BB-17). U.S. Naval Historical Centre Photo # NH 101078, from the album of Francis Sargent; Courtesy of Commander John Condon, 1986 via Robert Hurst.
BB-17 Rhode Island541kWith # 25 hanging between her funnels, the Rhode Island (BB-17) lies in mid stream, on 17 July 1913. Digital ID: # LC-B2-2445-16. Source: Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division, from the George Grantham Bain Collection, courtesy of Tom Kermen.
Veracruz Incident
BB-19 Louisiana50kRear Admiral Frank Fletcher and the Rhode Island (BB-17)
Since the arrival of the battleship Rhode Island at Veracruz a few days ago, Rear Admiral Frank Fletcher has made that huge craft his flagship. Rear Admiral Fletcher is in command of the five American battleships and two cruisers now in the Gulf of Mexico. Should intervention come he would handle the naval division of this country's forces. 		Image and text provided by Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records; Phoenix, AZ.
Photo courtesy of Bisbee Daily Review. (Bisbee, Ariz.) 1901-1971, 22 November 1913, Image 1 via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-17 Rhode Island81kSailors and Marines practice dancing on the battleship's quarterdeck, circa 1913. Photographed by Sargent.Photo # NH 101123 courtesy of USNHC. From the album of Francis Sargent; Courtesy of Commander John Condon, 1986.
BB-17 Rhode Island96kLiberty party inspection, while the Rhode Island (BB-17) was anchored off New York City, circa 1913. Another battleship is anchored in the distance, at right. Photographed by Sargent.Photo # NH 101121 courtesy of USNHC. From the album of Francis Sargent; Courtesy of Commander John Condon, 1986.
BB-16 New Jersey701kGUNS OF UNCLE SAM'S FLEET FROWN ON CITY OF VERACRUZ
Watching the mobilising of U. S. fleet in the harbor of Veracruz, Mexico
American battleships for many weeks have lain in the harbor of Veracruz, Mexico, ready to protect American interests or to seize the city on a moment's notice should intervention on the part of the United States be necessary. Veracruz is Mexico's largest port city. The battleships New Jersey (BB-16), Michigan (BB-27), Virginia (BB-13), Louisiana (BB-19) and Rhode Island (BB-17) are now anchored there.		Photo by Underwood & Underwood.
Image and text provided by University of Utah, Marriott Library.
Photo by The Ogden Standard. Ogden City, Utah) 1913-1920, 02 December 1913, 4 o'clock p.m. City Edition, Image 1.
Insert PDF Image and text provided by Washington State Library; Olympia, WA.
Photo from The Tacoma Times. (Tacoma, Wash.) 1903-1949, 12 December 1913, Image 7, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Atlantic FleetNR U. S. WARSHIPS RESCUE 500 AMERICANS
Battleship Rhode Island (BB-17), now in Tampico,on board which scores of refugees are seeking safety from the shell riddled town.
Image and text provided by University of California, Riverside.
Photo & text by The San Francisco Call and Post. (San Francisco, Calif.) 1913-1929, 13 December 1913, Image 1, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-17 Rhode Island576kFLETCHER ON JOB; WASHINGTON EASY.
REAR ADMIRAL FLETCHER AND HIS FLAGSHIP, THE RHODE ISLAND (BB-17)		Image and text provided by University of North Texas; Denton, TX.
Photo & text by El Paso Herald.(El Paso, Tex.) 1901-1931, 10 January 1914, Week-End Edition, Cable News and Too Late to Classify, Image 9, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-17 Rhode Island
011718		678kFranklin D. Roosevelt Boarding the Rhode Island (BB-17), circa 1914. National Archives Identifier: 196066988
Local Identifier: 48-22:4272
Photo courtesy of catalog.archives.gov
U.S. Atlantic Fleet battleships1.15kU.S.Atlantic Fleet battleships steaming toward Mexican waters in 1914. Photograph copyrighted in 1914 by E. Muller, Jr., and Pach.
OUR POWERFUL NORTH ATLANTIC FLEET
This is to considered be the most powerful battle fleet in the world. Recently it returned from the Mediterranean and left Hampton Roads for the south. During the last battle practice each of the vessels made a record for herself while the flagship Wyoming (BB-32) broke the world's record at target practice. The photograph shows the nine ships in the order in which they usually sail. The Wyoming is in the lead at the right, and is followed by the Florida (BB-30), Utah (BB-31), Delaware (BB-28), North Dakota (BB-29), South Carolina (BB-26), Rhode Island (BB-17), Georgia (BB-15),and New Jersey (BB-16).
The following battleships that were dispatched to Mexican waters included the:
Ohio (BB-12), Virginia (BB-13), Nebraska (BB-14), Connecticut (BB-18), Louisiana (BB-19), Vermont (BB-20), Kansas (BB-21), Minnesota (BB-22), Mississippi (BB-23), Idaho (BB-24), New Hampshire (BB-25), Michigan (BB-27), Arkansas (BB-33), New York (BB-34) & Texas (BB-35).
In insets are (left to right):
Rear Admiral Henry T. Mayo,
Rear Admiral Frank F. Fletcher,
Rear Admiral Charles J. Badger. 		Naval History and Heritage Command # NH 60322.
Insert PDF image and text provided by Louisiana State University; Baton Rouge, LA.
Photo by The Madison Journal. (Tallulah, Madison Parish, La.) 1888-current, 07 February 1914, Image 3, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Virginia class 387k Big guns on Virginia class (BB-13 / 17) battleship, Navy Yard. Photo #08_06_022796 from the Boston Public Library, Leslie Jones collection, courtesy of Kate Monea, Archivist, USS Constitution Museum.
BB-17 Rhode Island729kPREPARATIONS ON BATTLESHIPS THAT STAYED AT HOME
Great activity is notieable on some of the big battleships that did not go to Mexico last week with the North Atlantic fleet. The vessels are being rapidly made ready for active service, and the battleships Rhode Island (BB-17), Nebraska (BB-14), Georgia (BB-15) and Virginia (BB-13) may leave at any moment. The accompanying picture shows a boatload of potatoes being taken to one of the battleships in New York harbor.		Image and text provided by University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Library, Urbana, IL.
Photo & text by Rock Island Argus.(Rock Island, Ill.) 1893-1920, 21 April 1914, HOME EDITION, Image 12, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Atlantic FleetNRNAVAL RESERVES OF THE EAST WILL CRUISE SHORTLY ON THE BATTLESHIP RHODE ISLAND (BB-17)
Plans have been made for the annual cruise of the naval reserves of the eastern states. 'They will train this summer on the battleship Rhode Island.		Image and text provided by Connecticut State Library, Hartford, CT.
Photo & text by The Bridgeport Evening Farmer. (Bridgeport, Conn.) 1866-1917, 02 July 1914, FIRST SECTION, Image 9, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-17 Rhode Island1.67kPRACTICE CRUISE OF THE NAVAL BATTALION
SNAPSHOT TAKEN ABOARD THE RHODE ISLAND (BB-17) WHILE THE LOCAL JACKIES WERE RECEIVING INSTRUCTIONS IN RIGGING AND LAUNCING A PONTOON.		Image and text provided by Library of Congress, Washington, DC.
Photo & text by Evening Star. (Washington, D.C.) 1854-1972, 20 July 1914, Image 2, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Mid- Late 19 Teens / Early 20's
BB-27 Michigan377kTaken from the U.S. battleship Michigan (BB-27), the target, anchored in Chesapeake Bay, with the Rhode Island (BB-17) standing by passing a line to take it in tow. The ships take turns at towing the target. Photo by Enrique Mueller Jr. PDF courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
Text courtesy of N.Y. Tribune, 9 May 1915, Image 51.
Atlantic Fleet250k OUTLINED AGAINST A CURTAIN OF DARKNESS
A fleet of destroyers and torpedo-boats has now arrived at New York to join the heavy ships of the line. Altogether, about 50 vessels will be assembled when the ceremonies began next Monday. It is promised that the strained international relations will have no effect on the parade. 		Photo by International News Service.
Image and text provided by Penn State University Libraries; University Park, PA.
Photo & text by Evening Public Ledger (Philadelphia [Pa.]) 1914-1942, 13 May 1915, Night Extra, Image 16, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-32 Wyoming539k"Ships of the Atlantic Fleet playing their searchlights at night along the Hudson River."USN photo by Underwood & Underwood, courtesy of memory.loc.gov.
Text courtesy of N.Y. Times, 16 May 1915, Page 1.
BB-17 Rhode Island539k"Eager crowds viewing the submarines at the foot of 135TH street with the Rhode Island (BB-17) in mid stream."
The submarine tender is the Tonopah (M-8). 		Photo i.d. courtesy of Ric Hedman.
Photo by H.H. Russell, courtesy of memory.loc.gov.
Text courtesy of N.Y. Times, 16 May 1915, Page 1.
BB-14 Nebraska 985k Nebraska (BB-14) foreground with two other BB 13 class ships. Virginia (BB-13) precedes her with the Rhode Island (BB-17) (3 rings on her 1st 2 stacks) in the lead. Photo i.d. courtesy of Richard M. Jensen.
Photo by Enrique Mueller.
National Archives Identifier: 45513405
Local Identifier: 165-WW-337D-50.
Photo courtesy of catalog.archives.gov
Atlantic Fleet4.42k"The Atlantic Fleet saluting the President as it passed out to sea last Tuesday mid-day, with the New York skyline in the background."
The battleship Virginia (BB-13) is leading the ships shown in the photograph to the left, and is followed by the Rhode Island (BB-17), Nebraska (BB-14), Georgia (BB-15), New Hampshire (BB-25) and Louisiana (BB-19) in the order named. 		Photo by International News Service, courtesy of memory.loc.gov.
Text courtesy of N.Y. Times, 23 May 1915, Page 3.
PDF image and text provided by The New York Public Library, Astor, Lenox and Tilden Foundation.
Photo by The Sun. (New York [N.Y.]) 1833-1916, 19 May 1915, Image 3, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-34 New York2.03k Watching U.S. Navy Atlantic fleet warships depart during the Naval Review at New York City, New York, 18 May 1915. Photo # Lot-11276-4 Collection of George Bain, from the National Museum of the U.S. Navy, via flickr.com.
BB-17 Rhode Island637kNAVAL "ROOKIES" LEAVE LEAGUE ISLAND ON TRAINING CRUISE
The volunteers" who boarded the battleship Rhode Island (BB-17) this afternoon presented themselves to the public earlier in the day in a march down Broad street from Callowhill. The detail shows a typical farewell scene on the dock at the Navy Yard.		Image and text provided by Penn State University Libraries; University Park, PA.
Photo & text by Evening Public Ledger (Philadelphia [Pa.]) 1914-1942, 15 August 1916, Night Extra, Image 1, courtesy of chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-16 New JerseyNRWARLIKE SCENE AT CHARLESTON NAVY YARD
The commanders of the forty U.S. war vessels now lying in the Charleston navy yard are somewhat agitated by orders from Washington. These orders direct that none of the ships be laid up for repairs requiring more than 12 hours. All the officers have been ordered back to duty and orders have been issued to the enlisted men that they must remain within their home port.
In the group which shows the flag of three admirals are the Salem (CL-3), Chester (CL-1), Smith (DD-17) (torpedo boat), Patterson (DD-36) (torpedo boat) New Jersey (BB-16), Virginia (BB-13), Rhode Island (BB-17) Vestal (AR-4) (fleet tender) and Nebraska (BB-14).		 Image and text provided by University of Oregon Libraries; Eugene, OR.
Photo from East Oregonian: E.O. (Pendleton, OR) 1888-current, 10 May 1916, DAILY EVENING EDITION, Image 9, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-17 Rhode Island75kRhode Island (BB-17) at the Boston Navy Yard, painted in an experimental camouflage scheme, in 1917-18. Naval History and Heritage Command # NH 101192 courtesy of the Boston National Historical Park, Charlestown Navy Yard.
MacKay Camouflage 488k Experimental WW I camouflage, port side view of the New Jersey (BB-16), circa 1918. It was called a MacKay "disruptive low-visibility pattern" and the photo was taken while the Navy was testing it against range finders. Note that even the ship's boat alongside is camouflaged in the same pattern.
The Battleship off the stern of the New Jersey is most likely the Rhode Island (BB-17).		 NARA FILE #: 1165-WW-335A-48. Photo # HD-SN-99-02137, from the Department of Defense Still Media Collection, courtesy of dodmedia.osd.mil.
MacKay Camouflage 883k Rhode Island (BB-17) wearing "N5 design A" camouflage. Photo & text I.d. courtesy of Aryeh Wetherhorn
.National Archives Identifier: 45512823
Local Identifier: 165-WW-335A-58
Photo courtesy of catalog.archives.gov
BB-1767kCaptain J.L.Latimer commanded the Rhode Island (BB-17) approximately 18 May 1918 through 26 January 1919, and invites you to attend the ship's ball with him in Boston in 1918. Photo courtesy of Ron Reeves (of blessed memory) & Bill Gonyo via ebay.com.
Rhode Island390k Rhode Island (BB-17) at anchor off Brest, 2 January 1919. Photo taken by American official photographer. Photo # Q 66283 from the collections of the Imperial War Museums. Part of the American First World War Official Exchange Collection.
Photo courtesy of Robert Hurst.
BB-17 Rhode Island
011702		678kRhode Island (BB-17), circa late 1910's. National Archives Identifier: 55167360
Local Identifier: 111-SC-2984
Photo courtesy of catalog.archives.gov
Atlantic Fleet233kRhode Island (BB-17) in the Lower West Chamber, Miraflores Locks, looking south, while transiting the Panama Canal in July 1919. Source: Naval History and Heritage Command, Photo No. NH 105809, Collection of Commander Haines H. Lippincott, USN (Chaplain Corps) via Mike Green.
Atlantic Fleet491kRhode Island (BB-17) in the Gaillard Cut, opposite Culebra, looking north, while transiting the Panama Canal in July 1919. National Archives Identifier: 86738864
Local Identifier: 111-SC-67378
Photo courtesy of catalog.archives.gov
BB-17 Rhode Island 110kSteaming through Gatun Lake during the passage of the Pacific Fleet through the Panama Canal, 1 August 1919. Photo Naval History and Heritage Command # NH 75723, courtesy of the Naval Historical Foundation, Washington, D.C.; collection of Admiral William V. Pratt.
BB-17 581kCaptain Crosley is commander of the Rhode Island (BB-17), which is in the First Division. Image and text provided by Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records; Phoenix, AZ.
Photo courtesy of Bisbee Daily Review. (Bisbee, Ariz.) 1901-1971, 10 August 1919, Image 7, Image 1 via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
BB-17 Rhode Island156kRhode Island (BB-17) arrives at Mare Island on 12 September 1919. USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
BB-15 Georgia 109k Pacific Fleet Battleships tied up at the Mare Island Navy Yard, California, in the Spring of 1920. Ships are (from left-center foreground to right-center distance): Georgia (BB-15); Rhode Island (BB-17); Vermont (BB-20) and Nebraska (BB-14). Naval History and Heritage Command # NH 45052.
Mare Island65k"The Vallejo Bus Co. offered bus tours of Mare Island. While the passengers did not alight from the busses, they had time to admire the Hospital and other buildings as well as ships on the waterfront. In the backround are some old battleships that moored here following the end of WWI including the Vermont (BB-20), Nebraska, (BB-14), Georgia (BB-15) and the Rhode Island (BB-17).National Archives Identifier: 296839
Photo courtesy of catalog.archives.gov
BB-44 California92k Stern photo of the California (BB-44) at her outfitting dock at Mare Island Navy Yard sometime between 7 February & 24 February 1920. This time-frame established by the dry docking dates of the Rhode Island (BB-17); her masts and stacks are just visible to the right of the California superstructure. Also, USAT Grant & the Comfort are aft of the California. YD-33 is along side of the California. USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
BB-44 California614kCalifornia (BB-44) at her outfitting berth. I believe this photo was taken between 7 & 24 February 1920. This is based on the fact that the Rhode Island (BB-17) was in dry dock #2 and her gagged mast can be seen in the background above California. Other ships in the background to the left of California are left to right, USAT Mount Vernon and Comfort. The picture shows YD-33 (150 Tons) along side California. The floating crane was used to lift machinery aboard the battleship and the fixed derrick on the California was used to position in the ship. USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Mare Marines564kPhoto of the Mare Island Marine football team in the fall of 1920 with the Georgia (BB-15), Nebraska (BB-14) and Rhode Island (BB-17) in the background. USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
BB 14
011457v		NRCalifornians Inspect Great Battleship Named For State
Battleships of the Pacific fleet at anchor in the Mare Island, San Francisco, Navy Yard, photographed from the deck of the destroyer which carried a party of distinguished Califorians on a sightseeing trip of the yard and an inspection of the new super dreadnaught California (BB-44), nearing completion there.		 Image and text provided by Oklahoma Historical Society.
Photo courtesy of The Daily Ardmoreite. [volume] (Ardmore, Okla.) 1893-current, 08 November 1920, FINAL EDITION, Image 1, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.  
Mare Island 108k Mare Island Navy Yard, California. Six destroyers docked at one time in the Yard's concrete Dry Dock # 2, during the 1920s. These ships are all members of Destroyer Division 36. The three in front are (from left to right): Farenholt (DD-332), Sumner (DD-333) and Hull (DD-330). The dry dock's dimensions, as given on the photograph, are 740 feet in length and 120 feet in width, with 30 feet of water over the sill.
The destroyers in the back row are Macdonough (DD-331), Corry (DD-334) and Melvin (DD-335). All six ships were dock from 15 Jun 22 until 14 July 22. Masts of the decommissioned battleships Rhode Island (BB-17), Vermont (BB-20), Nebraska, (BB-14) and Georgia (BB-15) are just visible to the left of the dock destroyers. 		U.S. Naval Historical Center Photograph # NH 70684, courtesy of the Mare Island Naval Shipyard, 1970. Partial text & photo i.d. courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
BB-17203kEx armored cruiser Frederick (ACR-8) is moored alongside the battleship Rhode Island (BB-17) at Mare Island in 1922. Both ships are decommissioned. USN photo courtesy of Darryl L. Baker.
Mare Island 18k Mare Island Navy Yard in late 1923. Ships included the battleships Georgia (BB-15), Nebraska, (BB-14), Vermont (BB-20), and Rhode Island (BB-17), (right center). Also shown is the Tippecanoe (AO-21) and two older cruisers. Vallejo Naval Museum photo courtesy of Warship Boneyards, by Kit and Carolyn Bonner & submitted by Robert Hurst.
BB-17 Rhode IslandNRALL THAT IS LEFT OF THE BATTLESHIP RHODE ISLAND (BB-17).
This vessel was once a great fighting ship. She was recently taken to the Oakland, CA. navy yard, where workmen with acetylene torches and sledges proceeded to dismantle her. Photo by Underwood & Underwood.		Image and text provided by Library of Congress, Washington, DC.
Photo from Evening Star. (Washington, D.C.) 1854-1972, 04 January 1924, Image 17, via chroniclingamerica.loc.gov.
(NISMF)376kA guest studies a painting depicting the history of battleships. The artwork was painted by George Skybeck and presented to the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association during their annual banquet at Honolulu, Hawaii, on 8 December 1991. USN photo # DN-SC-92-05391, by PHC Carolyn Harris, from the Department of Defense Still Media Collection, courtesy of dodmedia.osd.mil.
Commanding Officers
01CAPT. Garst Perry, USN19.02.1906 - 00.05.1906
02CAPT. Bowman, Charles Grimes, USN (USNA 1869)00.05.1906 - 22.07.1907
03CAPT. Murdock, Joseph Ballard, USN (USNA 1870) :RADM22.07.1907 - ?
04CAPT. Griffin, Thomas Dillard, USN00.00.1909 - 25.10.1910
05CAPT. Hood, John, USN (USNA 1879) :RADM25.10.1910 - 04.05.1911
06CAPT. Jones Jr., Hilary Pollard, USN (USNA 1884) :ADM04.05.1911 - 02.01.1913
07CAPT. Williams, Clarence Stewart, USN (USNA 1884) :RADM02.01.1913 - 07.01.1915
08CAPT. Crose, William Michael, USN (USNA 1888)07.01.1915 - 18.05.1916
09CAPT. Latimer, Julius Lane, USN (USNA 1890) :RADM18.05.1918 - 26.01.1919
10CAPT. Crosley, Walter Selwyn, USN (USNA 1893) :RADM26.01.1919 -?
Courtesy Wolfgang Hechler
Additional Rhode Island Images
4 General Views Of Rhode Island From The Library Of Congress Server.
USS RHODE ISLAND BB-17 History
View This Vessels DANFS History Entry
(Located On The Hazegray & Underway Web Site, This Is The Main Archive For The DANFS Online Project.)
Crew Contact And Reunion Information
Not Applicable To This Ship
Additional Resources
Hazegray & Underway Battleship Pages By Andrew Toppan.
Back To The Main Photo IndexBack To The Battleship Photo Index Page


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