Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding
In this article, we will explore Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding from various angles and perspectives with the aim of thoroughly understanding its importance, impact and relevance in the current context. We will highlight the different facets and dimensions of Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, examining its influence in various fields and its interaction with other elements that shape our reality. Through a detailed and exhaustive analysis, we will reveal the complexity and depth of Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, offering a comprehensive vision that allows us to fully appreciate its meaning. Using a holistic approach, we will approach Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding from a multifaceted perspective, inviting the reader to immerse themselves in a journey of discovery and understanding that broadens their horizons and enriches their knowledge on this topic.
Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding is a shipyard located in Somerset, Massachusetts on the Taunton River.[1] It primarily builds pilot boats and high-speed catamaran ferries.
Gladding-Hearn was founded in 1954 by Preston Gladding and Richard Hearn, and delivered its first vessel, a fishing boat, in 1956.[2] The company built largely tugboats, pilot boats, and fishing vessels for the next several decades.[2] In 1977, Gladding-Hearn was the first American shipyard to launch a tug equipped with a Z-drive propulsion system,[3] and in 1978 built the first pilot boat to a deep-V hull design by naval architect C. Raymond Hunt that became the industry standard in following years.[1] In 1983, company vice president George Duclos bought out Gladding and Hearn and established the shipyard as a subsidiary of his family company, the Duclos Corporation.[1][2] In 1984, Gladding-Hearn became a licensee of designer Incat (now Incat Crowther), giving it access to designs for high speed catamaran vessels.[2] It has since built the majority of such vessels in service on the Eastern seaboard and Great Lakes.[1] As of 2016, Gladding-Hearn had built more than 400 ships, with 120 in active service for 38 operators.[3]
References
- ^ a b c d "Gladding-Hearn Delivers with Repeat, Proven Business in 2012". Marine Link. February 1, 2013. Retrieved 31 December 2016.
- ^ a b c d "From Small Commercial Shipyard to Premier". Marine Link. January 24, 2002. Retrieved December 31, 2016.
- ^ a b "MN100: Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding, Duclos Corporation". Marine Link. August 23, 2016. Retrieved December 31, 2016.