The history of shipbuilding in Elizabethport, New Jersey, is closely tied to the story of Bethlehem Steel, a giant in the American industrial landscape. Particularly significant is the role played by Lewis Nixon’s Crescent Shipyard, which laid the groundwork for shipbuilding activities in the area. Despite its relatively obscure legacy, this shipyard contributed to the maritime industry significantly before World War II.
The Early Years: Samuel L. Moore & Co.
The shipbuilding saga in Elizabethport began with Samuel L. Moore, who established his shipyard in the late 19th century. Under Moore’s leadership, the yard produced various vessels, including gunboats, tugs, and ferries. One of the most notable constructions was the Bancroft, a U.S. Navy gunboat launched in 1893. This vessel exemplified the shipyard’s early commitment to military and commercial maritime needs.
Hull List Highlights from Samuel L. Moore & Co.:
- Bancroft (PG 4.5): Gunboat, 839 tons, delivered to the U.S. Navy in 1893.
- Cincinnati: A ferry for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company, launched in 1891.
- Emerald: A yacht launched in 1893.
These early vessels showcase the yard’s versatility and capability to meet the demands of various maritime sectors.
Transition to Crescent Shipyard
In 1893, control of the yard transitioned to Lewis Nixon, a prominent shipbuilder who renamed it Crescent Shipyard. Under Nixon’s leadership, the shipyard flourished and continued producing various vessels, expanding its portfolio to include tank barges and yachts. Notable constructions during this period included:
- Annapolis (PG 10): A U.S. Navy gunboat launched in 1896 and later renamed “Keystone State.”
- Josephine: A yacht delivered in 1896, later serving the U.S. Navy.
Nixon’s innovative approaches and skilled workforce allowed Crescent Shipyard to adapt to changing maritime needs, contributing to both military and commercial vessel construction.
Acquisition by Bethlehem Steel
In 1916, as World War I escalated and the demand for ships surged, Bethlehem Steel acquired Crescent Shipyard to bolster its emergency shipbuilding efforts. Although the yard’s operation was short-lived, the acquisition marked a significant chapter in the company’s history.
Bethlehem Steel produced various vessels during its ownership, focusing primarily on cargo ships and tugs. The shipyard’s last major activity involved converting its facilities for the war effort, significantly contributing to the maritime landscape during a pivotal time in history.
Notable Vessels Built by Bethlehem Steel:
- Plainfield: A cargo ship delivered in 1918, later renamed “North Sea.”
- Garfield: Another cargo ship from the same year, renamed “Cacique.”
These vessels reflect the shipyard’s adaptation to wartime needs and the efficient production processes implemented under Bethlehem Steel.
Legacy and Call for Information
Despite its significant role in shipbuilding, detailed records of Crescent Shipyard and the ships it constructed remain limited. The comprehensive hull list showcases a range of vessels built under both Samuel L. Moore and Lewis Nixon, demonstrating the yard’s diverse output. However, historical accounts and specific information about the yard’s operations and its shipbuilding innovations are sparse.
If you have additional information or historical insights regarding Bethlehem Steel and Crescent Shipyard, please contribute to the preservation of this maritime legacy by reaching out to the historical community or contacting Tim Colton.
The history of Bethlehem Steel in Elizabethport, NJ, reflects a dynamic chapter in American maritime history. From Samuel L. Moore’s early endeavors to Lewis Nixon’s Crescent Shipyard and ultimately to Bethlehem Steel’s wartime contributions, this shipyard played a crucial role in shaping the shipbuilding industry. As we explore the legacies of these vessels and their builders, we honor the maritime heritage that has long been a part of New Jersey’s identity.