Battleship North Carolina to host lecture on WWII religious art and service member experience

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A unique piece of World War II history will take center stage this month as the Battleship North Carolina Memorial presents a special lecture exploring religious artwork created to support U.S. service members during wartime.

Scheduled for Wednesday, May 13, at 6 p.m., the program, Devotion on Deck: WWII Religious Art Aboard Battleship North Carolina, will be held in the ship’s Wardroom. The lecture will be led by Mary Ames Booker, curator of the Battleship North Carolina, and will focus on three-panel altar paintings known as triptychs.

These portable works of art were developed during World War II in response to the needs of military chaplains. Organized by the Citizens Committee for the Army and Navy, the initiative aimed to provide spiritual resources for troops stationed on naval vessels, at military bases, and in active field environments.

The triptychs served as compact, transportable altars, offering service members moments of reflection and familiarity while far from home. Notably, the first triptych created through the program was designed specifically for the USS North Carolina and remains part of the Battleship’s collection today.

“These works tell a lesser-known story of the human experience during World War II,” said Dr. Jay C. Martin, executive director of the memorial. “They reflect the care taken to support the people behind the mission—recognizing that their resilience and well-being were essential to its success.”

The lecture will delve into the artistic design, historical context, and enduring significance of the triptychs, shedding light on how they contributed to the emotional and spiritual lives of those serving during the war.

Admission is $5 with advance registration and $8 at the door, as space allows. The event is free for Friends members. Organizers encourage early registration due to limited seating.

For more information about this and other upcoming programs, visit the Battleship North Carolina website.