Virtual Activities
Kapok: America’s Life Saver
In the early 1900s, the United States Navy relied on life jackets made from cork, but they were heavy and rigid and could cause injuries to the wearer when jumping into water. In 1915, the United States Navy began using kapok fiber, a buoyant, lightweight fiber from a tropical tree, to help save the lives of those who traveled by sea throughout two world wars. In this activity, students will learn about the development and use of the Kapok life jacket from WWI to WWII.
Art Scavenger Hunt
Throughout the history of Battleship Texas, there have been many artists who have walked the decks. As they continued in their standard duties throughout the ship, they also honed their craft. Their art varied heavily depending on the time period and the many different mediums sailors and marines were inspired by.
In this individual or group activity, students will analyze, compare, and contrast real examples of historical art produced on Battleship Texas.
History of Battleship Texas
Battleship Texas led a distinguished 34-year career in the Navy, spanning two world wars and five continents. She was home to tens of thousands of sailors and marines from all walks of life. In this activity, students will use the History of Battleship Texas web resource to learn about the perspectives of people aboard Battleship Texas and answer questions about the world wars and inter-war era.
Bombarding Normandy
On the early morning of June 6, 1944, USS TEXAS anchored off the coast of Normandy, France, where the ship and her crew would deliver a massive barrage of naval gunfire support, softening the defenses of Adolf Hitler’s Atlantic Wall, as allied forces stormed the beaches of Normandy, taking part in the largest amphibious invasion of Europe in history. In this individual or group activity, students will analyze historic documents and photographs to learn about the perspectives of those serving on Battleship Texas during the Invasion of Normandy.