Charleston Naval Base

• Early Origins: The Charleston Naval Base was officially established in 1901, but its military importance dates back to the Revolutionary War when Charleston Harbor was a key defensive point. • World War I Expansion: During World War I, the base expanded rapidly, becoming a major shipyard for building and repairing Navy vessels. • Submarine Hub: In the Cold War era, Charleston Naval Base became the home port for a significant portion of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet submarines, including nuclear-powered subs. • Historic Dry Dock: The dry dock constructed in 1907 was one of the largest in the country at the time and was considered a marvel of engineering. • WWII Workforce: During World War II, over 25,000 people were employed at the base, including a large number of women who worked as “Rosie the Riveters.” • Decommissioning: The Charleston Naval Base was officially closed in 1996 as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process, ending nearly a century of service. • Economic Impact: At its peak, the base contributed more than $1.4 billion annually to the local economy and was Charleston’s largest single employer. • Cuban Missile Crisis: During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, the base was on high alert, supporting naval blockades and rapid deployments. • Famous Ships: Vessels such as the USS Yorktown and USS Clamagore were serviced at the base, and now serve as museum ships at nearby Patriots Point. • Legacy and Redevelopment: After closure, the base area was redeveloped as the Charleston Naval Complex, now hosting commercial businesses, a Coast Guard station, and the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center.