Engine order telegraph, from the USS CANBERRA
Date1943
Object number00001715
NameEngine order telegraph
MediumMetal, wood
DimensionsOverall: 1080 x 385 x 506 mm, 47.5 kg
ClassificationsVessels and fittings
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from the Department of the Navy
DescriptionThis engine order telegraph came from the USS CANBERRA, a Baltimore class heavy cruiser built in 1943. It is mounted on planking from the USS CONSTITUTION.
USS CANBERRA (CA-70) was commissioned on 14 October 1943. President Franklin Roosevelt asked that the U.S. cruiser be named to honour the Australian cruiser HMAS CANBERRA. It is the only American Navy ship ever named for an ally's sunken vessel.
HistoryUSS CANBERRA (CA-70) was commissioned on 14 October 1943. President Franklin Roosevelt asked that the U.S. cruiser be named to honour the Australian cruiser HMAS CANBERRA. It is the only American Navy ship ever named for an ally's sunken vessel.
HMAS CANBERRA was sunk and 84 crew members were lost during the battle of Savo Island on 9 August 1942. The battle involved a mixed force of American and Australian vessels fighting side-by-side against the Japanese.
USS CANBERRA was refitted in 1952 as a guided missile heavy cruiser and was decommissioned in 1970.SignificanceThis engine order telegraph was given to the Australian National Maritime Museum by the United States Navy as a gift in 1987.
"The engine order telegraph is a reminder to us of the close links which were forged between our nations during
World War II. More importantly, it will be a lasting reminder of the contribution of the US Navy to the defence of Australia. "
