Historical Photographs of Le Havre Docks: August-September 1934

Exploring Early 20th-Century Maritime Activities and Infrastructure

The early 20th century was a pivotal period in maritime history, marked by rapid advancements in shipping technology and infrastructure. A series of historical photographs, taken by Dr. L.I. Hewes during his visit to the International Road Congress in Germany in 1934, provides a fascinating glimpse into the maritime scene at Le Havre, France, and the operations of the time. These images, preserved in the Records of the Bureau of Public Roads, offer valuable insights into the docks and the shipping practices of the era.

Photograph 1: The Deck of a Small Ship

The first photograph captures the deck of a small ship from an elevated perspective. Several individuals are seen standing on the deck, indicating the busy nature of maritime operations. A lifeboat is prominently visible on the side of the ship, underscoring the safety measures in place during this period. This image not only reflects the design and layout of early 20th-century vessels but also hints at the busy activity surrounding maritime travel and transport.

Photograph 2: Dock Facilities at Le Havre

The second photograph focuses on a building situated on the dock at Le Havre, prominently featuring the letters "C.I.M." A statue of a bird adorns the top of the sign, adding a touch of artistic flair to the industrial setting. The dock area is equipped with various pieces of machinery designed for unloading boats, providing a snapshot of the technological capabilities and infrastructure available at that time. The presence of such equipment highlights the efficiency and scale of operations necessary to manage the busy docks of Le Havre.

Photograph 3: The Pier and English Channel

The third photograph offers a broader view of the pier with the English Channel in the background. The edge of a boat can be seen alongside the pier, and metal scaffolding towers are visible at the pier's edge. This image captures the scale and layout of the pier, reflecting the significant maritime activity and infrastructure that supported international shipping. The English Channel, a crucial waterway for trade and travel, serves as a dramatic backdrop, emphasizing the strategic importance of Le Havre as a major port.

These photographs, taken by Dr. L.I. Hewes, provide a valuable historical record of Le Havre's docks and maritime operations in 1934. They not only illustrate the physical environment of the time but also shed light on the technological and infrastructural developments that supported maritime trade. As historical documents, they offer a tangible connection to the past, reflecting both the advancements and the challenges faced by early 20th-century maritime industries.

Original article:

Mail For Plymouth, Dock at Le Havre https://catalog.archives.gov/id/169139278 Record Group 30: Records of the Bureau of Public RoadsSeries: Historical Photograph FilesFile Unit: Foreign - France Original caption: 42-857 - Pictures taken by Dr. L I Hewes - delegate to International Road Congress in Germany - 1934. Mail for Plymouth - August 30, 1934. Original caption: 42-858 - Dock at La Havre - September 1, 1934. Original caption: 42-859 - Dock at La Havre - September 1, 1934. This document is three black and white photographs pasted on a yellow card. The first on the left shows the deck of a small ship taken from above. Several people stand on the deck. A life boat is visible on the side of the ship. The center photo shows a building on the dock at Le Havre with the letters C.I.M. displayed. A statue of a bird is over the sign. Equipment for unloading the boats is visible. The third photo on the right shows the pier with the English Channel in the background. The edge of a boat pulled alongside the pier. Again, towers of metal scaffolding are on the edge of the pier.

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