Liberty Factory: The Untold Story of Henry Kaiser’s Oregon Shipyards
The annual John Williams Lecture Series returns to the Cannon Beach History Center & Museum. Named in honor of the Museum’s former Board President, John Williams, whose dedication continues to inspire the museum’s mission. The 2025 series kicks off with a presentation by maritime historian and author Peter Marsh.
This free event is open to the public, with seating limited to 50 attendees—early arrival is strongly recommended.
Peter Marsh will discuss his latest book, Liberty Factory, which uncovers the incredible legacy of Henry Kaiser’s WWII shipyards in Northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington. These shipyards—two in Portland and one in Vancouver—employed 100,000 workers, including 30,000 women, and launched over 700 vessels, including Liberty ships, oil tankers, and escort aircraft carriers. Despite their critical contribution to the war effort, the shipyards’ story remains largely untold, making this lecture a must for history enthusiasts.
Peter brings decades of expertise to the topic, having served as boatyard correspondent and editor for Freshwater News and playing a key role in developing the Hanthorn Cannery Museum in Astoria. This lecture marks the start of his 2025 book tour and offers a unique opportunity to explore a vital chapter in maritime history. Copies of Liberty Factory will also be available for purchase during the event.
The John Williams Lecture Series, running from February to June and October to December, features engaging speakers and thought-provoking topics that celebrate local and statewide history.
