J. F. Duthie & Company facts for kids

West Bridge, one of the "West" boats built at J. F. Duthie & Company, shortly before her completion in May 1918

J. F. Duthie & Company was a company that built ships in Seattle, Washington. It started in 1911. During World War I, the company grew bigger to build many large cargo ships. These ships helped the United States Shipping Board (USSB) carry important supplies.

Many of the ships built by J. F. Duthie were called "West boats." These were strong cargo ships made of steel. They were built on the West Coast of the United States to help with the war effort.

After the war, the company's founder, J. F. Duthie, had a son named Wallace F. Duthie. Wallace helped take apart the shipbuilding areas. Sadly, Wallace passed away in 1922 when he was only 23 years old.

In 1928, the company's name changed to Wallace Bridge Company. It then started building large steel structures for buildings in the local area. One example is the Washington Athletic Club building, which was built in 1930.

Building Ships for the War

J. F. Duthie & Company became very important during World War I. The United States needed many ships to transport goods and soldiers across the ocean. This company helped meet that need.

They built 27 ships that were part of a special group called the "West boats." These ships were known for their strong steel bodies. They were a big part of the country's effort to win the war.

Famous Ships Built Here

Here are some of the well-known ships that were built by J. F. Duthie & Company:

SS Griffdu, the very last ship they built
USS West Bridge (ID-2888)
USS West Point (ID-3254)
USS Western Hope (ID-3771)
USS Western Sea (ID-3153)
USS Western Star (ID-4210)
USS Westerner (ID-2890)
USS Westover (ID-2867)
USS Westpool (ID-3675)

Images for kids

The Duthie plant on the East Waterway of the Duwamish River in 1917.
A view of the plant from the water.
Another view of the plant from the water in 1917.