The Whirley Crane

The iconic Whirley Crane at Richmond Shipyard No. 3, a towering symbol of the industrial might that supported World War II shipbuilding efforts. Located next to the SS Red Oak Victory, this crane is a preserved piece of American history.

NPS photo/Luther Bailey

 

 

The History of the Whirley Crane

Access: Explore from the outside only.
Location: Richmond Shipyard No. 3, next to the SS Red Oak Victory.

Specifications:
Boom Length: 110 feet
Weight: 229,000 lbs.
Lifting Capacity: 166,000 lbs.
Original Cost: $32,000

Origins and Early Use

The Whirley Crane, named for its ability to rotate a full 360 degrees, is a marvel of industrial engineering. These cranes played a pivotal role in the heavy lifting required during large-scale construction projects and were critical to the success of numerous infrastructure endeavors. The origins of the Whirley Crane trace back to the mid-1930s when Clyde Iron Works of Duluth, Minnesota, constructed these colossal machines to aid in significant public works projects.

One of the earliest and most notable deployments of the Whirley Crane was during the construction of the Grand Coulee Dam in Washington State. Completed in the early 1940s, the Grand Coulee Dam was, and remains, one of the largest concrete structures in the world. The Whirley Crane’s robust design and extraordinary lifting capacity were instrumental in moving the massive quantities of materials required for the dam's construction. The crane’s ability to rotate and maneuver heavy loads with precision made it an indispensable asset in the successful completion of the project.

The Shift to Wartime Production

As the threat of global conflict loomed on the horizon in the late 1930s and early 1940s, the United States began to ramp up its industrial capabilities in anticipation of its eventual involvement in World War II. Industrialist Henry J. Kaiser, who had overseen the second phase of the Grand Coulee Dam project, recognized the critical role that efficient and large-scale shipbuilding would play in the impending war. Kaiser became a significant figure in wartime production, particularly in the shipbuilding industry.

In 1941, as part of the nation’s rapid mobilization for war, one of the Whirley Cranes from the Grand Coulee Dam project was transported by barge down the Columbia River and along the Pacific Coast to Todd California Shipbuilding in Richmond, California. This facility, which would later become known as Richmond Shipyard No. 1, was a key part of Kaiser’s extensive shipbuilding enterprise. The arrival of the Whirley Crane marked the beginning of its critical role in the wartime shipbuilding efforts that would soon unfold.

Dominating the Shipyard Skyline

Richmond Shipyard No. 1, along with three additional shipyards established by Kaiser in Richmond, quickly became the heart of America’s shipbuilding efforts. The skyline of the southern waterfront was soon dominated by the towering Whirley Cranes, which were used to move enormous quantities of steel and large, prefabricated components around the shipyard. These cranes, with their towering height and significant lifting capacity, became symbols of the industrial might of the American home front.

The Whirley Crane’s design, resembling a revolving boxcar perched on legs as tall as a 10-story building, allowed it to perform heavy lifting tasks with remarkable efficiency. The crane’s boom, measuring 110 feet in length, could rotate a full 360 degrees, enabling it to lift and move components with precision and flexibility. Weighing nearly 230,000 pounds and capable of lifting up to 166,000 pounds, the Whirley Crane was integral to the shipbuilding process, facilitating the rapid assembly of ships that were crucial to the war effort.

Role in the War Effort

During the peak of World War II, the Richmond shipyards operated around the clock to meet the urgent demand for new ships. The Whirley Cranes played a critical role in this effort by enabling the production of Liberty and Victory ships at unprecedented speeds. These vessels were essential for transporting troops, equipment, and supplies across the globe, ensuring that the Allied forces remained well-supplied and capable of sustained combat operations.

The Whirley Crane’s ability to lift and move large sections of ships allowed for quicker assembly times, which was vital given the urgent demand for new ships during the war. By handling the heavy lifting tasks, the Whirley Cranes enabled shipbuilders to focus on the intricate assembly work, significantly speeding up the production process. The cranes’ efficiency and reliability were critical to the success of the shipbuilding operations, making them invaluable assets in the war effort.

The Post-War Era and Preservation

Following the end of World War II, the Richmond shipyards gradually transitioned back to peacetime production. The Whirley Cranes, which had been so vital during the war, continued to serve in various capacities, supporting post-war construction and industrial activities. However, as the demand for large-scale shipbuilding diminished, many of the cranes were decommissioned or repurposed for other uses.

Despite the decline in their original purpose, the significance of the Whirley Cranes as historical artifacts did not go unnoticed. Efforts were made to preserve these iconic machines as reminders of the incredible industrial achievements of the wartime period. One such crane, located next to the SS Red Oak Victory in Richmond, California, stands as a preserved piece of history, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and the extraordinary industrial efforts of World War II.

Modern Appreciation

Today, the preserved Whirley Crane next to the SS Red Oak Victory serves as a tangible connection to the shipbuilding legacy of Richmond. Its presence alongside the restored Victory ship provides a vivid reminder of the scale and intensity of the industrial efforts that supported the Allied victory in World War II. The preservation of the Whirley Crane and its historical context serves as a tribute to the men and women who worked tirelessly to support the war effort through their contributions to shipbuilding.

Visitors to Richmond Shipyard No. 3 can explore the exterior of this impressive crane and imagine the bustling activity that once surrounded it during the height of its operational days. The Whirley Crane remains a powerful symbol of American industrial strength and ingenuity, embodying the spirit of the home front during World War II. Its robust design and extraordinary capabilities continue to inspire awe and appreciation, highlighting the remarkable achievements of the past and the enduring legacy of American industrial prowess.

The Whirley Cranes represent more than just pieces of industrial equipment; they are symbols of a nation's ability to mobilize and respond to extraordinary challenges. Their history, from the construction of monumental public works projects to their critical role in wartime shipbuilding, reflects the ingenuity, determination, and resilience of the American workforce.

 

Quick Facts about the Whirley Crane

• Name: Whirley Crane
• Location: Richmond Shipyard No. 3, next to the SS Red Oak Victory, Richmond, California
• Boom Length: 110 feet
• Weight: 229,000 lbs
• Lifting Capacity: 166,000 lbs
• Original Cost: $32,000
• Built By: Clyde Iron Works, Duluth, Minnesota
• Year Built: 1935
• Initial Use: Construction of the Grand Coulee Dam, Washington
• Relocated to Richmond: 1941
• Primary Use During WWII: Assembling Liberty and Victory ships
• Significance: Enabled rapid ship assembly during WWII, contributing to the Allied war effort
• Operational Height: Legs as tall as a 10-story building
• Rotation Capability: 360 degrees
• Historical Importance: Symbol of American industrial strength and ingenuity during WWII
• Current Status: Preserved and accessible for exterior viewing
• Nearby Attraction: SS Red Oak Victory, a restored Victory ship
• Preservation Efforts: Serves as a tribute to the industrial efforts and workers of the WWII home front

 

FAQs about the Whirley Crane

Where is the Whirley Crane located?
The Whirley Crane is located at Richmond Shipyard No. 3, next to the SS Red Oak Victory in Richmond, California.

Can visitors explore the Whirley Crane?
Visitors can explore the exterior of the Whirley Crane only. It is not accessible for interior exploration.

What is the significance of the Whirley Crane?
The Whirley Crane is a symbol of the massive shipbuilding efforts during World War II. It played a crucial role in the rapid construction of Liberty and Victory ships, which were essential to the Allied war effort.

When was the Whirley Crane built?
The Whirley Crane was built in 1935 by Clyde Iron Works of Duluth, Minnesota.

What was the original purpose of the Whirley Crane?
The Whirley Crane was initially used in the construction of the Grand Coulee Dam in Washington state.

How did the Whirley Crane arrive in Richmond?
In 1941, the crane was transported by barge down the Columbia River and along the Pacific Coast to Todd California Shipbuilding in Richmond, which later became Shipyard No. 1 of Kaiser’s extensive shipbuilding enterprise.

What are the specifications of the Whirley Crane?

• Boom Length: 110 feet
• Weight: 229,000 lbs
• Lifting Capacity: 166,000 lbs
• Original Cost: $32,000

What makes the Whirley Crane unique?
The Whirley Crane can rotate 360 degrees, resembling a revolving boxcar on legs as tall as a 10-story building. Its robust design and extraordinary lifting power were integral to the efficiency and speed of shipbuilding operations during WWII.

How did the Whirley Crane contribute to the war effort?
The Whirley Crane enabled the rapid assembly of ships by lifting and moving large sections of ships, allowing for quicker assembly times. This was vital given the urgent demand for new ships during the war.

Is the Whirley Crane part of any historical recognition?
Yes, the Whirley Crane is preserved as part of the Richmond shipbuilding legacy and is situated near the SS Red Oak Victory, a restored Victory ship, providing a tangible connection to the shipbuilding efforts during World War II.

Why is the Whirley Crane considered a symbol of American industrial strength?
The Whirley Crane's significant contributions to wartime production and its role in the mobilization of the "Arsenal of Democracy" highlight its importance in American industrial history. It remains a powerful symbol of American ingenuity and resilience during World War II.