National Museum of the U.S. Navy

U.S. Naval Aircraft Factory:  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

At the end of July 1917, the construction of the U.S. Naval Aircraft Factory at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was authorized for the purposes of constructing aircraft, undertaking aeronautical developments, and providing aircraft construction cost data due to United States' entry into World War I.    The factory is also known for helping to introduce women into occupations previously only open to men.    Following the war, the factory tested and manufactured aircraft to review costs and effectiveness.  During the later stages of World War II, the aircraft factory was disestablished.  

Image:   NH 114031:  U.S. Naval Aircraft Factory, Experimental Department, Women Working, circa WWI.   U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command Photograph.