Museum

Research Library

Research Library

USS Bowfin Submarine Museum Library USS Bowfin Submarine Museum maintains an extensive collection of submarine-related photographs, manuals, and monographs, covering topics such as World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, naval history, underwater archaeology, submarine design, and general submarine history. We also have a nearly complete set of World War II submarine war patrol reports, both in the original hard copy and in digital format. Each of the nearly 700 submarines commissioned by the U.S. Navy has a file in our archives.

Our non-lending library and archives are open by appointment to qualified researchers, submariners, and their families. The library is open by from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. Call (808) 423-1341, or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to schedule your research visit.

Secrets of the Sub

Hawaii Themed Submarines

USS Kamehameha (SSBN-642) was launched on 16 January 1965 and commissioned on 10 December 1965. This submarine holds the name for King Kamehameha the Great. It is fitting that one of our submarines bear the name of this striking figure in Hawaiian history. His people were intrepid seafarers and knowledge of stars, winds and currents still arouse wonder and admiration. For much of USS Kamehameha's service, she was based in Rota, Spain conducting deterrence patrols during the Cold War. Commissioning gifts to the submarine are on display at the museum.

USS Honolulu

USS Honolulu (SSN-718), a Los Angeles-class submarine, was the third ship of the United States to be named for Honolulu, Hawaii. She was launched on 24 September 1983 and commissioned on 6 July 1985. Honolulu’s patrols are commemorated by ten surfboards signed by the crews aboard her at the time. One of the four surfboards held at Bowfin Park is on display in the museum.

USS Hawaii

The USS Hawaii (SSN 776) is the first commissioned vessel of its name. Launched June 17, 2006 and Commissioned May 5, 2007 she is fortunate to be homeported in her namesake state. The submarine was named to recognize the tremendous support the Navy has enjoyed from the people and state of Hawaii, and in honor of the rich heritage of submarines in the Pacific.

Hawaii is the third of the Virginia Class submarines. The Virginia-class of attack submarines surpasses the performance of any current projected threat submarine, ensuring U.S. undersea dominance well into the next century.

Bowfin Museum collections include models of all three submarines.