174 years of Innovation at the Charlestown Navy Yard

A red hot shank of an anchor is being hoisted by men behind the anchor in the Navy Yard's Forge — Forging an anchor in Building 105, November 1965.
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For 174 years, the Charlestown Navy Yard has been a site of production, a hub of innovation, and a home for some of its workers. The Ropewalk here manufactured rope for the U.S. Navy. Workers at the Chain Forge developed the die-lock chain, a chain two times stronger than the previously used chains. The Navy Yard has constantly evolved based on the needs of its workers and the U.S. Navy.

Explore this extensive history through learning about the ships the Navy Yard built, the buildings of the Yard, and the people who worked and served here.

Ships Built at the Yard

America's first ship-of-the-line
USS INDEPENDENCE

Though successful, smaller frigates like CONSTITUTION could not fight large ships. INDEPENDENCE was Charlestown's first 74 gun battleship.
Farragut's Fighting Flagship
USS HARTFORD

This steam powered sloop fought in some of the largest naval engagements of the Civil War and remained afloat for nearly 100 years.
USS NARRAGANSETT

USS NARRAGANSETT served during the Civil War defending the Pacific against Confederate raiders and later became a ship of exploration.
The Last Ship of the Navy Yard
USS SUFFOLK COUNTY (LST-1173)

The final ship built by the Navy Yard, USS SUFFOLK COUNTY supported the fleet during uncertainties much different than World War II.
USS CUMBERLAND (IX-8)

Learn about one of the last ships built at the Navy Yard solely powered by sail.
USS BRAZOS (AO-4)

USS BRAZOS (AO-4) served as one of the three fuel ships constructed at the Navy Yard.
HMS GORE (K481)

Learn about the HMS Gore, which transferred to the U.S. Navy in the lend-lease program.
USS O'BRIEN (DD-415)

Constructed at the Navy Yard, USS O'BRIEN served in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
U.S. NAVY YSD-23

YSD-23 served as one of the utilitarian service vessels constructed at the Yard.
Destroyer Escorts

Learn about the construction of Destroyer Escorts at the Charlestown Navy Yard during World War II.