When the U.S. entered World War I in 1917, the Navy only had about 75,000 enlisted sailors. So the government set out on a full-scale campaign to increase their troop numbers so they could battle the Central Powers in Europe, a recruitment so successful the Navy eventually rose to half a million sailors when the war ended. One of their most noticeable tactics in helping with the incredible and speedy growth was building a real battleship in the heart of New York City’s Union Square. Sometimes, it’s all about bells and whistles.
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Christened the USS Recruit, the ship had an acting captain who oversaw recruitment and simulation training for newly enlisted sailors from the Newport Training Station. The USS Recruit wasn’t just a replica, it was commissioned as a real ship, equipped with officer’s quarters, doctor’s quarters, medical facilities and a wireless station. According to Mashable,
Constructed from wood, the USS Recruit carried two cage masts, a conning tower and a dummy funnel, or smokestack. It had six wooden replicas of 14-inch (360 mm) guns housed in three twin turrets, 10 wooden five-inch (130 mm) anti-torpedo boat guns and two replica one-pound saluting guns, matching the configuration of battleships of the time.
Recruits also followed the typical navy schedule, cleaned the ship and stood guard. In addition, the sailors took classes and answered questions from the many visitors. They even hosted social events.
Library of Congress
Library of Congress
The USS Recruit remained in New York City until 1920 where it enticed about 25,000 new sailors into active duty. However, when WWI ended in 1918 and the U.S. no longer needed new fighters by the thousands, officials decommissioned the USS Recruit with full military honors before they disassembled it. Though the Navy said they planned to move the ship to Coney Island where it would serve as a recruiting base, the ship never reappeared.
Library of Congress
Library of Congress
Library of Congress
(h/t Mashable)
