Intro
Explore the USS Oregon battleship, a legendary war machine that played a pivotal role in the Spanish-American War. Discover its impressive specs, notable battles, and historic significance. Learn about its advanced armament, armor-plated hull, and innovative design features that made it a formidable naval force in the late 19th century.
The USS Oregon was a pre-dreadnought battleship that served in the United States Navy from 1896 to 1919. The ship played a significant role in the Spanish-American War and is considered one of the most iconic warships in American history. In this article, we will delve into the history of the USS Oregon, its design and construction, its service during the Spanish-American War, and its legacy as a legendary war machine.
Design and Construction
The USS Oregon was designed by the US Navy's Bureau of Construction and Repair, and its construction was authorized by Congress in 1889. The ship was built at the Union Iron Works in San Francisco, California, and was launched on October 26, 1893. The USS Oregon was the third ship of the Indiana-class battleships, which were designed to be fast and heavily armed.
The USS Oregon was 348 feet long and 69 feet wide, with a draft of 24 feet. It had a displacement of 10,280 tons and was powered by two vertical triple-expansion steam engines, which produced 8,000 horsepower. The ship had a top speed of 16 knots and a range of 5,000 nautical miles.
The USS Oregon was armed with four 13-inch guns, eight 8-inch guns, and six 6-inch guns. It also had 20 smaller guns and four torpedo tubes. The ship's armor was 18 inches thick, making it one of the most heavily armored ships in the world at the time.
Service During the Spanish-American War
The USS Oregon played a significant role in the Spanish-American War, which began in April 1898. The ship was part of the US Navy's Asiatic Squadron, which was commanded by Commodore George Dewey. The USS Oregon sailed from San Francisco to Manila, Philippines, a journey of over 14,000 miles, to join the Asiatic Squadron.
On May 1, 1898, the USS Oregon participated in the Battle of Manila Bay, where the US Navy defeated the Spanish Pacific Squadron. The USS Oregon fired over 200 rounds during the battle, helping to sink several Spanish ships.
After the Battle of Manila Bay, the USS Oregon sailed to Cuba, where it participated in the blockade of the Spanish port of Santiago. The ship played a key role in the Battle of Santiago de Cuba, where the US Navy defeated the Spanish Caribbean Squadron.
Legacy
The USS Oregon is considered one of the most iconic warships in American history. Its service during the Spanish-American War helped to establish the US Navy as a major world power. The ship's design and construction also influenced the development of future battleships.
The USS Oregon was decommissioned in 1919 and was eventually sold for scrap in 1956. However, its legacy lives on, and it remains one of the most famous warships in American history.
Key Statistics
- Length: 348 feet
- Beam: 69 feet
- Draft: 24 feet
- Displacement: 10,280 tons
- Top speed: 16 knots
- Range: 5,000 nautical miles
- Armament: 4 x 13-inch guns, 8 x 8-inch guns, 6 x 6-inch guns
- Armor: 18 inches thick
Gallery of USS Oregon Battleship
USS Oregon Battleship Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the USS Oregon's role in the Spanish-American War?
+The USS Oregon played a significant role in the Spanish-American War, participating in the Battle of Manila Bay and the Battle of Santiago de Cuba.
What were the USS Oregon's key statistics?
+The USS Oregon was 348 feet long, 69 feet wide, and had a draft of 24 feet. It had a displacement of 10,280 tons and was powered by two vertical triple-expansion steam engines.
What was the USS Oregon's legacy?
+The USS Oregon is considered one of the most iconic warships in American history, playing a significant role in establishing the US Navy as a major world power.
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