1 | 24 | 2022
A weekly publication of Newport News Shipbuilding
Newport News Shipbuilding employees walk to the 37th Street gate at the end of day shift in April 1919. NNS Photo Archive
Celebrating 136 Years of “Good Ships” This week marks Newport News Shipbuilding’s 136th anniversary. On Jan. 28, 1886, the Virginia General Assembly approved the company’s charter, which provided authorization to acquire land, build a dry dock and build ships of all dimensions. Founded as Chesapeake Dry Dock and Construction Co. by Collis P. Huntington, the shipyard’s name was changed in 1890. Not long after its founding, NNS became a major player in both commercial and naval shipbuilding and helped spur early growth of the city of Newport News. Tugboat Dorothy, delivered in 1891, was the shipyard’s first vessel. NNS was awarded its first naval contracts in 1894 for gunboats Nashville (PG 7), Wilmington (PG 8) and Helena (PG 9). A quote attributed to Huntington has served as a reminder of the company’s commitment to quality throughout its history: “We shall build good ships here; at a profit if we can, at a loss if we must, but always good ships.” Today, 25,000 shipbuilders carry on NNS’ proud legacy, building and overhauling U.S. Navy aircraft carriers and submarines.
Winter Wonderland
A weekend winter storm blanketed Newport News Shipbuilding with snow. Thank you to all of the shipbuilders who worked before, during and after the storm to keep the facility operational and safe. As a reminder, shipbuilders should call the Employee Information Phone Line at 1-877-871-2058 for updates regarding shipyard operations during inclement weather. Shipbuilders also are encouraged to download the NNS to Go app. Photo by Aaron Pritchett