Henry Robb Ltd. [1945-1965]

The third volume of the Leith-built ships story covers the period from 1945 to 1965, during which the industry faced changes due to the advent of electric welding and the decline of the Rivet Squad. The Henry Robb Shipyard participated in a massive new shipbuilding program, building vessels for Ellerman Lines and other customers. The book also includes personal accounts from those who built or sailed on these vessels, preserving the story of the vibrant industry that once existed.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 25 August 2022
Publisher: Whittles Publishing

The tale of Leith-built ships unfolds in this third volume, spanning from the aftermath of World War Two to 1965. However, the world had undergone significant changes, with the men returning from the front and the women who had worked in the shipyards losing their jobs. All shipyards were bustling with full order books, either replacing, repairing, or constructing ships that had been lost or damaged during the conflict. While the industry was evolving, albeit gradually at first, the advent of electric welding would eventually revolutionize shipbuilding, leading to the decline of the Rivet Squad. This traditional ship-building method was replaced as a cost-cutting exercise, as it became the widely accepted standard for ship construction.

Henry Robb Shipyard actively participated in the massive new shipbuilding program, receiving numerous orders from two of the yard's most prominent customers. Ellerman Lines, one of the largest customers, placed numerous orders, while other customers, such as the Union Steamship Company of New Zealand, also placed significant orders. The Admiralty remained a loyal customer, commissioning a few large supply ships during this period.

In this volume, the author has not forgotten the individuals who were the very essence of the yard and community. Personal accounts from those who built or sailed on these vessels are included, providing a unique perspective on the industry and its impact. While it is a poignant reminder of the decline of a mighty industry, this volume serves as a testament to the story of the Leith-built ships and the vibrant industry that once thrived.

In the century between 1893 and 1993, this nation witnessed a remarkable transformation. From producing a staggering 80% of all the world's commercial ships, it gradually declined to a point where it ceased to manufacture any commercial ships at all. It is a sobering fact, but this volume ensures that the story of the Leith-built ships and the vibrant industry that once existed is preserved for future generations.

Dimension: 240 x 170 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781849955072