Monitor National Marine Sanctuary to create 3D replicas of USS Monitor’s famous artifacts

January 14, 2023 | Island Features

Photo by Monitor National Marine Sanctuary

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the USS Monitor’s discovery, Monitor National Marine Sanctuary is partnering with the University of West Florida to create 3D replicas of some of the vessel’s most famous artifacts. The public is invited to attend the event at The Mariners’ Museum and Park in Newport News, Virginia, on Jan. 28, 2023.

Attendees will be able to view a variety of artifacts such as Monitor’s gun tools. The event will also include hands-on, family friendly activities and a new, immersive VR experience.

The USS Monitor sank in a storm in 1862 and wasn’t discovered until August of 1973, 50 years ago. With the recovery of the famous Ericsson Turret and other artifacts in 2002 the science and the stories of Monitor National Marine Sanctuary are still being shared today! Join us to see how we are bringing this science to the people in new and exciting ways.

WHAT: Artifact Scanning at The Mariners’ Museum and Park

WHEN: January 28, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ET

WHERE: The Mariners’ Museum and Park, 100 Museum Dr, Newport News, VA 23606

Managed by NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, Monitor National Marine Sanctuary was designated in 1975 to protect the wreck of the famed Civil War ironclad USS Monitor, which sank during a storm 16 miles off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina in 1862.