Historic Launch of U.S.S. Delaware, 1909 at Newport News

This historical photograph captures the launch of the U.S.S. Delaware, a significant event in naval history that took place in February 1909 at the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Virginia. Sponsored by Anne P. Cahall, the U.S.S. Delaware was a battleship in the United States Navy, part of the New Mexico class. Its launch marked an important milestone in the early 20th century, reflecting the United States growing naval power and industrial capabilities during a time of global competition.

Newport News was a key location for shipbuilding at this time, known for its advanced shipbuilding techniques. The event attracted attention and signified not only the ships readiness for service but also the role of women, like Cahall, in participating in ceremonies traditionally dominated by men. As one of the first battleships built under the Navy’s new policies promoting modern design and capabilities, the U.S.S. Delaware played a crucial part in strengthening the naval fleet during a transformative period in American military history.