Naval History and Heritage Command

Title: Ship Anchor from the USS Enterprise (CV-6)
Accession #: NHHC 1958-16-AB
Circa: 1936
Size: 12' x 9'
Medium: Steel
Location: Headquarters Artifact Collection, Naval History and Heritage Command

One ship’s anchor from USS Enterprise (CV-6). This is a standard US Navy stockless anchor. It is all metal and painted grey. Its estimated  weight is 25,000 pounds. 

USS Enterprise is the most decorated US Navy ship. She participated in most of the major engagements in the Pacific campaign. Commissioned in 1938, she was one of only three US aircraft carriers to serve the entire length of the war.  

This style of anchor is common throughout the US Navy. The heavy weight and design enable it to grab onto almost any sea floor. It is the standard size for aircraft carrier anchors of its time. However, it is relatively small compared with the 60,000 pound anchors of today’s class of aircraft carriers.  

This anchor is one of two bow anchors removed from the Enterprise when she was sold for scrapping in 1958. The anchor was first delivered to the Brooklyn Navy Yard, then onto the Washington Navy Yard where it was placed on display at the south end of Leutze Park.