Ship's Bow

The bow of a Liberty Ship was typically more blunt than a Victory ship or other modern cargo vessels. It was common during wartime to be able to recognize ship silhouettes and a Liberty’s bow shape made it easily recognizable. The O’Brien also had steel reinforcement at the bow as extra protection from ice flows while crossing the North Atlantic. Due to its degraded condition and to preserve the hull, it was removed during the 2017 drydock.

At the bow area, you'll see the breakwater, anchor chain windlass, access to the original carpenter shop, and the 3” gun platform that includes WWII sailor’s pinup art.

During high seas, water would often break over the bow of the ship. To prevent it from entering the forward holds, a breakwater or chevron-shaped low wall was welded vertically to the deck. It extends past the edges of the No. 1 cargo hatch to divert the water off the deck toward the bulwark, and out the scuppers.

The forward 3-inch gun platform is the most prominent feature. The anchor chains and windlass are located beneath and are used to raise the anchors from each side of the ship’s bow. Note the bell which was used for foggy weather.

Forward of the gun platform on the deck is a raised, square hatch. It provides access to the original carpenter’s shop, anchor chain lockers, and the forward peak tank which stores fresh water for the ship’s use.

The L-shaped hook was added for holding an auxiliary light required for crossing the Panama Canal and you’ll see the jackstaff, or flagpole, to fly flags usually only while in port.