The Walsh-Kaiser Company, located in Providence, Rhode Island, was a significant player in the U.S. shipbuilding industry during World War II. Originally established as an emergency shipyard under the name Rheem Manufacturing, it was repurposed for shipbuilding in response to the urgent needs of the wartime economy. With six ways built during the fifth wave of shipbuilding expansion, the yard received $26 million from the U.S. Maritime Commission (USMC) to facilitate its operations.
Transition and Management
As the shipyard faced difficulties under Rheem Manufacturing’s management, the Kaiser Shipbuilding Company was brought in to oversee operations. Under Kaiser’s guidance, Walsh-Kaiser flourished, eventually employing up to 21,000 workers at its peak. The shipyard was strategically located at Field’s Point in Providence, allowing for efficient operations in a region with a rich maritime history.
Contributions During the War
The Walsh-Kaiser shipyard played a crucial role in producing a variety of vessels essential for the war effort. Its most notable contributions included the construction of both cargo and patrol frigates. The yard was particularly known for building the EC2-S-C1 cargo ships, which were designed for efficient transport and supply operations during the war. Some key examples of the vessels built at Walsh-Kaiser include:
- William Coddington: Laid down on June 27, 1942, launched on November 27, 1942, and delivered on February 13, 1943. This EC2-S-C1 ship was eventually scrapped in 1967.
- John Clarke: Laid down on July 11, 1942, launched on February 25, 1943, and delivered on April 12, 1943. Like many of its counterparts, it was scrapped in 1968.
- Samuel Gorton: Laid down on July 28, 1942, launched on April 6, 1943, and delivered on May 6, 1943. This vessel also met the same fate, being scrapped in 1968.
- James De Wolf: Laid down on August 15, 1942, launched on April 29, 1943, and delivered on June 9, 1943. It was scrapped in 1961.
- Lyman Abbot: Laid down on November 28, 1942, launched on April 22, 1943, and delivered on May 22, 1943. This vessel was scrapped in 1970.
The yard also produced the S2-S2-AQ1 patrol frigates, which were built for the U.S. Navy and later transferred to the British Royal Navy. These vessels were critical in anti-submarine warfare and provided crucial support during naval operations. Examples include:
- Hallowel: Laid down on October 15, 1943, and transferred to Britain in 1944 as HMS Anguilla (K 500). It was returned in 1946 and scrapped in 1949.
- Hammond: Laid down on November 4, 1943, and became HMS Antigua (K 501) after being transferred to Britain. It was returned in 1946 and scrapped in 1947.
- Hargood: Laid down on November 24, 1943, and transferred to the British Navy as HMS Ascension (K 502), also returned in 1946 and scrapped in 1947.
These vessels showcased the efficiency and productivity of the Walsh-Kaiser shipyard during its brief operational period.
Closure and Legacy
Following the conclusion of World War II, the demand for new naval vessels diminished, leading to the closure of the Walsh-Kaiser shipyard. Despite its short-lived operation, the yard made significant contributions to the war effort, helping to supply the U.S. and its allies with essential maritime resources.
The legacy of Walsh-Kaiser Company, Inc. remains a testament to the rapid mobilization of American industry during wartime. The yard’s contributions not only helped in winning the war but also served as a critical part of the maritime fabric of Providence, Rhode Island. The spirit of innovation and determination displayed by the workforce at Walsh-Kaiser is a noteworthy chapter in the broader narrative of American shipbuilding history.