The dictionary consists of an alphabetical index to over 10,000 ship histories documenting nearly every ship that the US Navy has put to sea. Continental and Confederate vessels are also included. Entries include physical information, commissioning, service record, notable actions, and decommissioning. Drawings, photographs, and documents are also included.

Cover title: American Naval fighting ships.

v. 1, pts. A-B. Historical sketches, Letters A and B -- v. 2. Historical sketches, Letters C-F -- v. 3. Historical sketches, Letters G-K, appendices 1-6 -- v. 4. Historical sketches, Letters L-M -- v. 5. Historical sketches, Letters N-Q -- v. 6. Historical sketches, Letters R-S -- v. 7. Historical sketches, Letters T-V -- v. 8. Historical sketches, Letters W-Z.