Built in 1943, the ship was commissioned the USS ZUNI (ATF-95), serving the majority of her Navy years in the Pacific during World War II, including the invasion of Iwo Jima.  She was decommissioned and transferred to the U. S. Coast Guard on 29 June 1946 and renamed The USCGC TAMAROA (WMEC-166).  The Tamaroa served in various duties in the Atlantic area until the Coast Guard decommissioned her in 1994.  After a brief stay moored, alongside the Intrepid Museum in New York City , the United States General Services Administration received responsibility for her. Through the efforts of GSA, and others, the Tamaroa Maritime Association received custody of her in April 2002.  The ZUNI/TAMAROA will be made available to Sea Cadets, Sea Scouts, NROTC and Junior NROTC Programs.  Our mission is to provide the public a historical and educational experience about the history of this class of vessel and the significant role she had in protecting our freedom and securing our national defense.

 

The preservation and restoration process is being conducted by a small group of very dedicated volunteers who live aboard on the first and third weekends of each month.  The ship provides its own power and has a large onboard sewage tank. There are approximately 3000 gallons of diesel fuel aboard, lube oil in the engines (4 mains and 3 auxiliaries).

 

The Zuni/Tamaroa is currently in trim and drawing 11 1/2 ft. draft, fore and aft.  She is equipped with inflatable life rafts, life preservers and most if the required damage control and fire fighting equipment required for a ship of its type.  The anchor windlass and capstan are operable.  There is more than sufficient mooring line aboard and a supply of wire rope for emergencies.  She is 205 ft. long x 38 ft. wide.