Manitowoc's U.S.S. Cobia needs work
"I'm on the boat an hour or two each day, just checking things," explained Paul Rutherford, who has worked at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum for nearly 30 years, and knows the USS Cobia well.
"This is in good shape. The fresh water helps preserve it," said Rutherford.
Though the nearly 70 year old submarine is in good shape, it needs some work.
"Most of it will be under water so it's hard to point that out," said Rutherford, who is building and grounds supervisor at the museum. "But we're gonna do some work on the conning tower that needs to be painted and there's some... some structure supports that need to be cut out and replaced so it's sturdy for another 15 or 20 years, just age, it needs to be done."
The last time the Cobia underwent serious maintenance was 14 years ago. The submarine spent about two months in Sturgeon Bay, getting a major makeover. Museum officials hope the next overhaul will happen next summer.
"The vessel would have to be towed from here to the dry dock, most likely in Sturgeon Bay and the bottom would be scraped and cleaned," said Norma Bishop, the museum's executive director. "The invasive zebra mussels would be removed, and the algae..."
It's a big project that comes with a big price tag. The museum has been doing some fund raising for the project, but needs about another $50,000 to be eligible for a grant that would help pay for the restoration. The entire cost of the project is in the neighborhood of $350,000.'
"It's a phenomenal treasure that we have right here. It's linked to our history and heritage. The sacrifice of all the men and women who worked in the shipyards, the men who served," said Bishop.
The U.S.S. Cobia is a tribute to the past and a treasure for the future, and officials hope it will be for many years to come.
The museum's executive director says if the funds aren't raised, the museum will have to review the project and consider scaling back or delaying it.
The museum is hoping to raise some funds through a special "Sub Culture Saturday" event at the museum on August 14, featuring live music and a 315-foot sub sandwich.
Officials are also planning a letter writing campaign, soliciting donations.
