The FBI’s Boston Division has recovered nine historical artifacts and records belonging to the USS Massachusetts (BB-59), the legendary World War II battleship affectionately known as “Big Mamie,” now preserved as a floating museum at Battleship Cove in Fall River, Massachusetts.
Among the recovered items is a folder labeled “Plan of the Day for 1942,” containing historically significant documents that offer a rare glimpse into U.S. Navy operational planning during World War II. Other recovered artifacts include a rusted metal crate marked “Missile Hazards Within” and a First Lieutenant’s Damage Control Book containing detailed engineering and structural specifications critical to keeping the battleship afloat and combat-ready.
The artifacts are believed to have been missing for nearly three decades.
Their return was made possible after a Texas family discovered the items among their late father’s belongings in a storage unit. The man had worked on refurbishing the ship during the 1990s. After recognizing the historical significance of the materials, the family voluntarily relinquished them.
“These are enduring pieces of our nation’s history that reflect the courage, sacrifice, and service of the sailors who served aboard ‘Big Mamie,’” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. “Their recovery ensures that future generations will have the opportunity to better understand the legacy of those who defended our freedom during history’s most devastating and defining conflict.”
Docks also thanked the family for its cooperation, noting that the case underscores the important role the public can play in identifying and reporting missing or stolen historical artifacts.
The investigation began last year after the Fall River Police Department contacted the FBI on behalf of Battleship Cove’s curator. Museum volunteers had noticed that several missing artifacts appeared in a social media post, prompting the curator to alert authorities.
FBI Boston conducted the investigation and worked with the FBI’s Dallas Field Office to secure the items. The Bureau subsequently authenticated the artifacts.
“We are very grateful to the FBI for their invaluable assistance in bringing these historic artifacts home to Battleship Massachusetts,” said Christopher Nardi, Chief Operating Officer of Battleship Cove.
Photos of the recovered artifacts are available for viewing and download at fbi.gov/USSMassachusettsArtifacts.
The FBI’s Art Crime Team consists of special agents and personnel specially trained in art and cultural property investigations. Since its creation, the team has recovered more than 20,000 items valued at over $1 billion. More information is available at fbi.gov/artcrime.
