Bath Iron Works, Naval shipyard in Bath, Maine, US
Bath Iron Works is a naval shipyard on the Kennebec River in Bath, Maine, constructing destroyers and other military vessels for the American fleet. The site spans several blocks along the waterfront and includes dry docks, assembly halls, and large cranes that rise above the water.
Thomas W. Hyde founded the shipyard in 1884, when Bath was already known for building wooden ships. Over the course of the 20th century, the operation shifted to steel ship construction and became a major supplier to the American Navy.
The name of the facility reflects its industrial origins and today represents the region's long connection to warship construction. Many families in Bath have worked here across several generations, anchoring the operation firmly in local life.
Visitors cannot enter the grounds, but the cranes and partially built ships are visible from Washington Street. A walk along the riverfront offers a sense of the scale of the facility.
The shipyard has completed over 400 vessels since its founding, including many during both World Wars. The Arleigh Burke-class destroyers built here are among the most modern warships of their kind.
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