Explore Our Galleries: A Journey Through Maritime History

At Albacore Park, we invite you to step into the past and explore the fascinating world of submarines and the rich maritime heritage of our region. Our expanded exhibit space offers a detailed look at the history, technology, and personal stories that define our local legacy. We are constantly updating and improving our displays, ensuring there is always something new to discover.

The Albacore Gallery

Dedicated to the USS Albacore (AGSS-569), this gallery serves as the heart of our museum. The Albacore was a unique, one-of-a-kind experimental research vessel—never intended for combat but designed specifically to test revolutionary hull shapes and propulsion systems. Her contributions fundamentally changed the design of modern submarines worldwide.

Working Periscope: Experience a firsthand look through a genuine submarine periscope.
Captain’s Accounts: Engage with our interactive video kiosk featuring firsthand stories from Albacore captain Roy M. Springer.
Curated Artifacts: View a selection of commemorative items and historic uniforms that tell the day-to-day story of life aboard this legendary boat.

The Submarine History Gallery

This expansive gallery tells the wider story of the U.S. Submarine Service, from World War II to the modern day, with a special emphasis on Portsmouth’s significant contributions to the fleet.

Technological Evolution: A wall-sized display charting the rapid advancement of submarine engineering.
Portsmouth’s Legacy: Dedicated memorial displays regarding the USS Squalus and USS Thresher.

Interactive Learning: Hands-on displays explore the complexities of submarine equipment and power systems.

Multimedia Education: A dedicated video viewing area and a digital slideshow covering key moments in Cold War history and local submarine milestones.

The Maritime Gallery

Broadening our scope beyond the submarine fleet, this gallery highlights the maritime history of coastal New England, focusing specifically on the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and the vibrant history of the Piscataqua River Basin.

Interactive Displays: Test your skills at our knot-tying board or explore the mechanics of historical navigation and telegraphy.

Historical Figures: Learn about the legendary John Paul Jones and the various vessels under his command.

The Nightingale: Discover the remarkable and complex story of this vessel. Originally used for the transport of enslaved people, the Nightingale was later captured and repurposed by the U.S. Navy to participate in the blockade of Africa to fight the slave trade.

Rotating Exhibitions: This space hosts changing displays to ensure a fresh experience with every visit.
- Current Exhibition: "The Virginia: Maine's First Ship." Presented in partnership with Maine's First Ship, this exhibit tells the story of the reconstruction of the first English ocean-going ship built in the Americas.