U.S.S. California -Zett Family Trivia

Other Writing
Written By natalie zett

Theodore Zett

This scrapbook (Log Album) once belonged to my Dad’s oldest brother. Ted Zett (1910-1987) enlisted in the U.S. Navy around 1930 and had many adventures aboard the U.S.S. California. The chorus of his favorite song was, “Oh what a time I had with Minnie the Mermaid, down at the bottom of the sea!”

U.S.S. California, Log Album. T. Zett abt. 1930

The cover features an illustration of the USS California, indicating that this scrapbook is dedicated to the ship and contains memorabilia and documentation from my uncle's time aboard.

Domain of Neptunus Rex certificate

Domain of Neptunus Rex Certificate:

  • The first page is a "Domain of Neptunus Rex" certificate. This is a traditional certificate given to sailors when they cross the equator for the first time, signifying their initiation into the "Order of the Shellbacks."

  • It’s a naval tradition that dates back centuries and involves a line-crossing ceremony where sailors transition from "Pollywogs" (those who haven't crossed the equator) to "Shellbacks" (those who have).

  • The certificate is often signed by "Davy Jones" and "Neptunus Rex," fictional characters representing the ocean and its ruler, adding to the ceremonial aspect.

USS California (BB-44)

The USS California (BB-44) was a Tennessee-class battleship of the United States Navy. Here are a few key points:

  • Commissioned: 1921

  • Service: It served in World War II and was present during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, where it was heavily damaged but later repaired and returned to service.

  • Decommissioned: 1947

natalie zett

I've been a writer, actor, photographer, and musician and have worked as a freelance journalist for magazines and papers since I was in my late teens.

My favorite writing job was working for an award-winning community newspaper in Saint Paul, the Park Bugle.

I’ve also taught others how to write for community newspapers at The Loft Literary Center in Minneapolis, MN. And, during the last few years, I became a family historian.

https://www.flowerintheriver.com
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