The Seneca Shipyard During World War II

Little Seneca, Illinois, was nowhere near the fighting front, but even then, participated in a big way sending troops and their shipyard was kept busy constructing LSTs (Landing Ship Tanks). After completion, these ships would go down the Illinois River to the Mississippi River and on out to the Gulf of Mexico.

From 1942 to 1945, the Seneca Shipyard built 157 LSTs. The first, the LST-197, was finished Dec. 13, 1942. Every single LST was delivered on schedule, something the shipyard was quite proud of. LST-1152 was the last one, delivered June 18, 1945.

Thirty-nine gallons of champagne was used for christening.

There are still people living in Marseilles and Seneca who worked at the ship yard.

The original shipyard is located on Shipyard Road by the Illinois River. Just turn at the LST Park.

The World War II Homefront. --DaCoot

No LST Festival for Me

I had been considering driving south to Seneca, Illinois, for their LST Festival, those letters standing for the old World War II stalwart, Landing Ship Tank. Those poor numbered and nameless ships made to transport tanks, vehicles and soldiers to beaches in amphibious operations; so important at D-Day and the Pacific operations.

Due to a major vehicle breakdown on the 2003 Chevy Malibu which required all new tires, a brake job, new windshield wipers and an oil change. It is still at the Chevy place and won't be ready until noon, too late to start a hundred mile trip.

I'll just have to go boating, to Round Lake Beachfest, work around the house and enjoy the gazebo, patio, deck and front porch. Oh, the sacrifices.

However, we plan to visit Seneca and find out what we can about the LST shipyard and visit it if possible (I know there is an LST Park in town). Then, we can drive along the Illinois River and IM Canal and out to Starved Rock. That would make a nice two-three day vacation.

As the song says, "You can't always get what you want."

No LSTs for Me. --DaCoot