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The New York Shipbuilding Corporation played an important contribution to the defense of the nation during World War II. One of the three largest shipyards in the United States, New York Ship built a number of naval ships of many different classifications. This cartographic image represents the New York Shipbuilding Corporation at the height of its physical development and activity (c. 1942-1945).

Explore New York Ship using this interactive tool to learn about the facility and its important contributions from that time period.

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The Ship Yard

A waterfront view showing New York Ship’s distinctive covered ways under which work can be carried on relatively independent of the weather.
The New York Shipbuilding Corporation’s distinct covered ways allowed for work to be carried on relatively independently of the weather. This design and layout was the brainchild of New York Ship’s founder, Henry G. Morse, who had extensive structural steel fabrication experience prior to entering the shipbuilding field. Mr. Morse’s advanced ideas were the basis of a planned shipbuilding procedure which contributed to the industry throughout the world.

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USS South Dakota

3D Rendering of the South Dakota

Named for State of South Dakota, this impressive battleship and her crew earned a Navy Unit Commendation for service during World War II. This vessel also participated in combat operations in preparation for the invasion of Japan. Considered to be one of the most efficient battleships in its class, South Dakota was in active service from 1942 to 1947. However, a year before her launch, South Dakota’s “exploits” in major sea engagements were reported in the news under the monikers Battleship “X” and Old Nameless. This was an attempt by the US Navy to obscure sensitive operational information from enemy lines.

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USS Savannah


Launched on May 8, 1937, the USS Savannah served in World War II in the Mediterranean and Atlantic theatres of operation. In 1943, a German radio-controlled Fritz X glide-bomb caused extensive damage requiring permanent repairs at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. After repairs were complete, Savannah served in the task force that carried President Roosevelt to the Yalta Conference in early 1945.

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