What was Rivet City before the War?
Rivet City, a self-sustaining town, was once a bustling metropolitan area before the war devastated the world. Built on a former naval vessel, the USS Midway, Rivet City was initially a floating city and part of the United States Navy’s fleet. Over the years, it underwent numerous transformations, evolving into the unique community it became. In this article, we’ll delve into the past and explore what Rivet City was like before the war.
History Before the War
In 1918, the United States Navy commissioned the USS Midway, a Yorktown-class aircraft carrier. For over 50 years, the ship played a significant role in several historical events, including World War II, the Vietnam War, and the Cold War. In the late 1960s, as technology advanced and the threat of war decreased, the Navy decommissioned the USS Midway, opting to repurpose it instead.
Conversion into Rivet City
Between 1970 and 1980, the US military converted the USS Midway into a floating city. The ship was renamed Rivet City (also known as "Navy City" or "Sea City") and intended to serve as a permanent naval base and testing ground for new technologies. Over 1,500 residential units, commercial buildings, and recreational facilities were added to the ship’s flight deck and hangar.
Life in Rivet City
Before the war, Rivet City thrived as a mixed-use community. Here, you could find residential apartments, commercial businesses, schools, hospitals, libraries, and even entertainment facilities like movie theaters and game rooms. The community boasted a diverse population of about 10,000 inhabitants, including military personnel, their families, and civilian contractors.
Inhabitants and Occupations
Some of the residents who called Rivet City home before the war were:
• Military Personnel: Active-duty sailors and marines, as well as retired veterans, made up a significant portion of Rivet City’s population. They worked on the ship, maintained its operations, and contributed to various aspects of the community.
• Civilian Contractors: Engineers, technicians, and skilled workers were responsible for the ship’s conversion, maintenance, and repair.
• Families and Dependents: Many residents were families of military personnel, including spouses and children, who lived in the ship’s residential units.
Economy and Education
Rivet City boasted a thriving economy, with various businesses, including:
• Repair and Maintenance: Workers specializing in ship repair and maintenance services kept the vessel running smoothly.
• Industrial Production: Factories within Rivet City manufactured naval equipment, spare parts, and other goods for the military.
• Commissary and Recreation: Residents could shop at a commissary for necessities and enjoy recreational activities at facilities like the pool, gym, and theater.
The community also offered quality education to its residents, with schools serving children from kindergarten to high school. Additionally, educational institutions like the Naval Nuclear Power School and the Naval Aviation Museum were located on the ship.
Recreation and Leisure
Rivet City’s residents enjoyed various forms of recreational activities, including:
• Sports: Indoor and outdoor sports facilities hosted everything from basketball and soccer to swimming and tennis.
• Arts and Culture: The ship’s cultural center offered classes in art, music, and theater, as well as host performances and exhibitions.
• Community Events: Public events, such as fairs, festivals, and parades, brought the community together.
Military Significance
Before the war, Rivet City played a crucial role in the US military’s technological advancements. The ship was a testing ground for new technologies, such as aircraft carriers, and home to various naval facilities. Its proximity to major cities like San Francisco and Seattle made it an attractive location for military operations.
Challenges and Impact of the War
As war ravaged the world, Rivet City was ultimately abandoned and left to ruin. The once-thriving community was evacuated in the early 1990s, and the USS Midway was later stripped of its valuable equipment. The ship itself has become a ghost ship, a haunting reminder of a bygone era. Although Rivet City was only a temporary home to a diverse population, its impact on the world was immense.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rivet City, before the war, was a thriving floating community built on the former naval vessel, USS Midway. It was a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, supporting a diverse population of 10,000 inhabitants. From its military significance as a testing ground for new technologies to its educational institutions and recreational activities, Rivet City was a shining example of human resilience. As we reflect on this forgotten chapter in history, we are reminded of the importance of community and innovation.
Table: Inhabitants and Occupations in Rivet City (before the war)
| Occupation | Description | Number of Residents |
|---|---|---|
| Military Personnel | Active-duty sailors and marines, retired veterans | 3,500 |
| Civilian Contractors | Engineers, technicians, skilled workers | 2,000 |
| Families and Dependents | Spouses, children, military dependents | 2,500 |
| 8,000 |
Bullets List: Rivet City’s Education and Recreation
• Elementary and high schools for students from kindergarten to 12th grade
• Naval Nuclear Power School and Naval Aviation Museum
• Swimming pool, gym, movie theater, and other recreational facilities
• Cultural center with art, music, and theater classes and exhibitions
• Public events like fairs, festivals, and parades
• Sports facilities for basketball, soccer, tennis, and more
