Site of Heldenfels Shipyard

Shipping industries flourished on the Rockport waterfront by the 1880s. Heldenfels Shipyard was established here on 12.9 acres in October 1917. Four 281-foot wooden cargo vessels were to be built for military use in World War I; the Baychester was launched on July 31, 1919, and the Zuniga on September 9, 1919. At the height of construction, over 900 men were employed at the shipyard. The need for ships fell as the war ended. Despite hurricane damage to the shipyard on September 14, 1919, the Jasper and the Manchester were completed as barges in 1920, ending this vital war contract. (1996)

— Texas Historical Commission, 1996

Location & Directions

1800 S. Church Street (SH 70), Rockport, Texas