Historic Launch: First Ship at Newark Yards, 1917

This photograph captures the beginning of a significant moment in American industrial history: the launch of the first ship built at Newark Yards on December 20, 1917. At the height of World War I, shipyards like Newark became crucial to the war effort, enabling the United States to bolster its naval capabilities and supply allied forces. The image provides a visual snapshot of a time when American shipbuilding was rapidly expanding to meet the demands of the war.

During this period, Newark Yards was one of several shipyards that transformed the United States into a major naval power. The construction techniques and materials used at Newark were representative of advancements in engineering and fabrication. The workforce was comprised of individuals responding to the urgent need for ships, reflecting a diverse array of backgrounds that contributed to this critical industrial endeavor. This photograph serves as a documentation of both the craftsmanship involved in shipbuilding and the collective effort of a nation mobilized for war.