USS Maine

A Young Boy Stands Proud upon the Bow of the USS Maine

The USS Maine entered the Havana Harbor on 25, January 1898 just off shore of where the El Morro Castle Fortress still stands.  A few weeks later on 15, February 1898 an explosion on board ended the ship from sailing again.  It was speculated that the Vessels' six and ten inch guns were detonated from the five tons of Gun Powder that was being carried.  The explosion obliterated the forward third of the ship casing the bow to sink rapidly to the bottom of the harbor.

This National Monument at Columbus Circle in New York City is a tribute to the 261 Officers, Sailors, and Marines who perished that fateful day.  There were only 94 survivors.  The symbolic image of the Boy on the bow is unknown.  Possibly to symbolize Strength and Courage.

TO

THE VALIANT SEAMEN

WHO PERISHED iIN THE

MAINE

BBY FATE VNWARNED

IN DEATH VNAFRAID