The Southeastern Shipbuilding Corporation in Savannah, Georgia, represents a critical aspect of the American shipbuilding industry during World War II. Initially developed by Savannah Shipyards, Inc., the facility underwent a significant transformation when it was taken over by the U.S. Maritime Commission (USMC) in early 1942. This transition marked the beginning of a focused effort to bolster the nation’s shipbuilding capabilities during a time of global conflict.
Development and Expansion
Initial Establishment
The shipyard’s journey began with the establishment of Savannah Shipyards, Inc., which laid the groundwork for the construction of ships to support the war effort. However, with the United States fully engaged in World War II, the USMC recognized the need for expanded shipbuilding capabilities and stepped in to take control of the shipyard in early 1942.
Investment and Expansion
Under the management of Southeastern Shipbuilding, the shipyard underwent a significant upgrade. Originally equipped with three ways, the yard expanded to six during the fourth wave of shipbuilding expansion. This growth was supported by an impressive investment of $13 million from the USMC, highlighting the government’s commitment to increasing production capacity to meet wartime demands.
Despite its rapid expansion, the Southeastern Shipbuilding Corporation faced challenges in maintaining production efficiency and quality, which were critical to ensuring timely delivery of ships to the Navy and merchant marine fleets.
Closure After the War
The shipyard played an essential role in the construction of various types of vessels, primarily focused on the EC2-S-C1 cargo ship model, which was vital for logistical support during the war. However, like many shipyards after the conclusion of World War II, the Southeastern Shipbuilding Corporation closed its doors, marking the end of its shipbuilding operations.
Ship Production Records
Throughout its operational period, the Southeastern Shipbuilding Corporation constructed several notable vessels, primarily of the EC2-S-C1 class. Some key ships built at the yard include:
- George Handley: Laid down on May 22, 1942, launched on December 7, 1942, and delivered on March 4, 1943. It was scrapped in 1964.
- James Jackson: Keel laid on June 4, 1942, launched on December 27, 1942, and delivered on March 18, 1943. It was scrapped in 1973.
- George Walton: Its keel was laid on June 18, 1942, launched on January 21, 1943, and delivered on March 30, 1943. Unfortunately, it burned and sank in 1951.
- Lyman Hall: Laid down on June 23, 1942, launched on February 6, 1943, and delivered on April 9, 1943. It was scrapped in 1963.
- John Milledge: Keel laid on June 27, 1942, launched on February 21, 1943, and delivered on April 19, 1943. It was scrapped in 1965.
The yard produced a total of 23 ships, primarily of the EC2-S-C1 type, with various fates ranging from scrapping to sinking.
The Southeastern Shipbuilding Corporation played a pivotal role in the United States’ naval operations during World War II. Although the shipyard closed after the war, its contributions to shipbuilding and maritime logistics were significant and reflect the broader efforts of the American shipbuilding industry during a transformative period in history.