Existing comment:
Working in the Yard
When the Charleston Navy Yard opened in 1800, Boston 's skilled maritime workers provided a ready source of labor. As sail gave way to steam, and wooden hulls gave way to iron and steel, the work of building, repairing, and maintaining a fleet changed with modern technology.
The size of the work forced also changed, varying with war, peace, and the size of the fleet. During World War II, more than 50,000 full-time employees worked round-the-clock in such specialized jobs as ship fitter, boilermaker, and foundry worker. |