Elizabeth, NJ – Elizabeth, New Jersey, witnessed a historic celebration as the United States Navy officially recognized the city as the birthplace of the U.S. Submarine Force. The event, held at Veterans Memorial Park, featured the unveiling of an impressive 3D artistic replica of the USS Holland (SS-1), marking a significant milestone in naval history and highlighting Elizabeth’s deep maritime legacy.

The USS Holland, launched in 1897, was the first modern submarine commissioned in the history of the U.S. Navy, and the newly unveiled sculpture pays tribute to John Phillip Holland, the visionary behind this groundbreaking vessel. Holland, an Irish immigrant who settled in Elizabeth, transitioned from a schoolteacher to a pioneer in shipbuilding, eventually founding the John Holland Torpedo Boat Company, which later evolved into what is now General Dynamics Electric Boat Division (GDEB), a leader in submarine construction.

The historical significance of this unveiling is rooted in Elizabeth’s Crescent Shipyard, where the USS Holland was originally built. The 14-foot-wide, 9-foot-tall sculpture was crafted by local artisans from HERRALBERT LLC, under the direction of Adalberto de la Cruz, a Dominican artist who highlights local talent and pride while preserving Elizabeth’s rich heritage.

The event was a collaborative effort led by the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce (GECC), the Elizabeth Renaissance Foundation, the Elizabeth Tourism Office, and other community organizations. Jennifer M. Costa, president and CEO of GECC, emphasized the importance of preserving Elizabeth’s maritime history: “It was an honor and privilege for our chamber to help preserve our maritime legacy by bringing together our schools, businesses, and community, creating a lasting legacy of a bright future built on the foundations of our proud past.”

Elizabeth’s vibrant community spirit was on full display, with local schools participating in the event. Students from the Elizabeth Board of Education’s Autobody Program contributed to the creation of the sculpture, while district carpenters handcrafted painted cutouts of the American flag and U.S. Navy personnel, symbolizing the city’s patriotic pride.

The ceremony featured speeches from several key figures:

Carlos Torres, City Council President, expressed civic pride in Elizabeth’s role in naval engineering: “Elizabeth’s historic role in naval engineering is a source of immense pride. The USS Holland sculpture beautifully symbolizes our city’s enduring legacy and enhances the revitalization efforts of our waterfront.”

Commander Steven A. Halle, captain of the USS New Jersey (SSN 796) submarine, shared his gratitude for the recognition of Elizabeth: “It is an honor to witness Elizabeth’s recognition as the birthplace of submarine technology in the same year we are commissioning a new Navy submarine named after the state of New Jersey. These coincidences represent a significant milestone in our naval tradition that has come full circle.”

Stanley Neron, Vice President and Commissioner of the Elizabeth Board of Education, emphasized the importance of education in preserving local heritage: “The unveiling of this sculpture underscores our commitment to honoring the history and contributions of our educational institutions to the heritage of our community.”

Dr. Olga Hugelmeyer, Superintendent of Elizabeth Public Schools, spoke about the event’s inspirational value for students: “This event is a source of inspiration for our students, uniting businesses and the community while linking the historical significance of our city with educational growth and innovation.”

Mayor J. Christian Bollwage reflected on the city’s legacy: “This day marks a proud moment in Elizabeth’s history. With the unveiling of this modern 3D artistic replica of the USS Holland, we not only honor the brilliance behind the first submarine commissioned by the U.S. Navy but also celebrate Elizabeth’s enduring maritime legacy.”

Elizabeth’s waterfront is rapidly becoming a must-visit destination, thanks to efforts like these that celebrate its history while embracing modern creativity. The unveiling of the USS Holland sculpture offers the perfect reason to visit this charming city and explore its ongoing waterfront revitalization efforts.

For history buffs, maritime enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a unique glimpse into U.S. naval history, Elizabeth offers a fascinating journey into the origins of the U.S. Submarine Force.