The CSS Neuse Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, whose Board of Directors consist of US Miltary Veterans. The CSS Neuse II is a memorial to all Americans who fought in all of America's wars.

A crew of volunteers is building a full-scale replica (158 feet long) of the Confederate ironclad CSS Neuse. When complete, this ship will be a valuable educational tool and tourist attraction that will benefit the people of Kinston, Lenoir County, and North Carolina both historically and economically. From the day the keel was laid, thousands have visited Kinston to observe this important project. It has turned into an instant tourist attraction. From late April 2005 through August 2005, the CSS Neuse received nearly 6,000 visitors. Native Kinstonian and master shipbuilder Alton Stapleford is in charge of construction. Stapleford, along with local businessman Ted Sampley started the project.