PT boat in Portland named National Historic Place

PORTLAND, Ore. - The only remaining operable PT boat from World War II, the class of versatile motor torpedo boats made famous through the exploits of President John Kennedy, has been listed this week in the National Register of Historic Places.

The boat, PT-658, has been restored by former PT boat veterans and volunteers in Oregon for the nonprofit Save the PT Boat, Inc. for the past 18 years.

“We are delighted to have PT-658 listed in the National Register,” said Maurice Hooper, former PT boat crewman and Save the PT Boat, Inc. board president. “It’s a tribute to all of the veterans who served on PT boats and helped secure this nation’s freedom during World War II, as well as the dozens of volunteers who have worked tirelessly, investing thousands of hours to restore this historic boat.”

Boats like the PT-658 were developed in the early 20th century by European naval powers as part of their coastal defenses. These small, wooden boats were an inexpensive way to quickly deliver torpedoes which could destroy ships as heavy as battleships.

The United States began manufacturing PT boats in 1941 shortly before entering World War II.

Kennedy was the commanding officer of PT-109 when it was crushed by a Japanese ship in May 1942. He also commanded PT-59. Kennedy’s success with these wooden ships, which was popularized during his 1960 presidential campaign, was the subject of several books and a movie.

PT-658 was built near the end of the war in New Orleans. 

Save the PT Boat Inc. acquired PT-658 and moved it to Portland in 1994.

The authenticity and accuracy of its restoration are exemplary, according to its National Register nomination.

Only two other PT boats are listed in the National Register, but neither is currently operating.