The Western Pipe & Steel Company, established in 1917 by U.S. Steel, played a pivotal role in the American shipbuilding industry, particularly during the tumultuous times of World War I and World War II. Originally created to construct cargo ships for the U.S. Shipping Board, this shipyard has a storied history marked by innovation, resilience, and a notable contribution to the maritime defense capabilities of the United States.
Early Years and World War I
Founded amidst the urgency of World War I, Western Pipe & Steel was one of the few emergency shipyards that remained operational after the war’s conclusion. While many shipyards were dismantled as wartime demands waned, Western Pipe & Steel adapted by diversifying its production. The yard engaged in the construction of barges and dredges and focused on fabricating pipe, ensuring its continued relevance in the maritime industry during the interwar period.
Innovations in Shipbuilding
Western Pipe & Steel distinguished itself as a pioneer in the development of automatic welding machinery, a technological advancement that enhanced the efficiency and quality of ship construction. Alongside Sun Shipbuilding, the company led efforts to modernize shipbuilding practices, setting the stage for the production of more durable and reliable vessels.
Expansion During World War II
As the United States prepared for World War II, Western Pipe & Steel expanded its operations by establishing a second yard in San Pedro, California. The main yard was located in South San Francisco, featuring four berths from which ships were launched sideways. Despite its strategic importance, the exact location of the yard remains somewhat unclear, leading to local rumors, including the tongue-in-cheek nickname “Western Swipe and Steal.”
During the war, both shipyards operated under a single sequence of hull numbers, allowing for streamlined production and tracking of vessels. The shipbuilding efforts at Western Pipe & Steel during this period included a significant number of cargo and transport vessels crucial for military logistics and operations.
Notable Shipbuilding Contributions
The yard produced a range of vessels, including the C1-B and C3-S-A2 classes, which were integral to wartime shipping. Here are some noteworthy ships built by Western Pipe & Steel:
- American Manufacturer (Hull #57): Laid down on February 5, 1940, launched on August 8, 1940, and delivered on April 11, 1941. This vessel was sold in 1948 and went through several name changes before being scrapped in 1973.
- American Leader (Hull #58): Laid down on February 19, 1940, and launched on October 8, 1940. Tragically, it was sunk by gunfire near St. Helena in 1942.
- Steel Artisan (Hull #62): Laid down on April 7, 1941, launched on September 27, 1942, and delivered on September 30, 1942. This vessel was transferred to the U.S. Navy as the USS Barnes (CVE-7) and later served the British Royal Navy as HMS Attacker (D 02). It was eventually sold as a passenger ship in 1950 and scrapped in 1980.
- Sea Swallow (Hull #83): Laid down on July 1, 1942, launched on November 10, 1942, and delivered on May 4, 1943. This vessel was commissioned into the U.S. Navy and later scrapped in 1972.
These ships highlight the critical role that Western Pipe & Steel played in supplying the U.S. Navy and the Allied forces during the war.
The Closing of Western Pipe & Steel
Like many wartime shipyards, Western Pipe & Steel ceased operations at the end of World War II. The demand for military vessels diminished, and the yard was ultimately closed. Despite its relatively short operational life, the company left a lasting legacy in American shipbuilding history.
The Western Pipe & Steel Company stands as a testament to American ingenuity and resilience in the face of global conflict. Its innovations in shipbuilding, particularly in automatic welding, paved the way for modern practices that are still in use today. The company’s contributions during World War I and World War II helped shape the maritime capabilities of the United States and solidified its position as a vital component of the nation’s industrial infrastructure.
For those interested in learning more about the shipyard’s legacy or the vessels it produced, further information can be found on various dedicated resources, including records of shipbuilding efforts in WWII and pre-war accomplishments at Western Pipe & Steel.