Wartime demands on hardened metals for arms production limited the availability of steel for other applications. As a result, the US Navy produced cargo tankers—included the USS Selma—out of concrete.
Though the USS Selma never saw battle, she filled an important role in cargo transport. After running aground in Tampico, Mexico, the Selma returned to Galveston for repair, only to eventually be intentionally sunk at her current location in 1922.
Today, the Selma’s remains still protrude from the waters of the Houston Ship Channel and are visible from the end of the pier at Seawolf Park. Interpretive panels within the park’s museum recount her role as a WWI naval vessel.
Seawolf Park
Watch our World War I Monuments in Texas video to learn more about Texas and Texans in WWI. This video was produced for inclusion in our Texas and the Great War mobile tour found in our Texas Time Travel Tours mobile app. Download the app for more videos and travel information: