Charlestown Navy Yard

The Charlestown Navy Yard in Charlestown, Massachusetts was established in 1800. During World War II, more than 165 vessels were built that were longer than 100 feet, and thousands of vessels repaired. The shipyard is still used and was repairing the USS Cassin Young in September. The USS Constitution is also docked and open for tours.

An exhibit in the visitor center shows visitors many parts of what happened in the shipyard, including the process of making chains and rope used on the ships. The Navy’s Ropewalk was used to produce rope, instead of using privately manufactured, poor quality rope. Over four million pounds of rope was produced in 1942.

Dry Dock 1 was the one of two original dry docks in the Navy and was important in repairing the growing naval fleet.