"Founded in 1750, Chatham Dockyard quickly became one of the most important naval yards for the construction and repair of warships, maintaining a preeminent position for the next 400 years. In this detailed new history of the yard particular attention is given to the final two hundred years of the yard's history, the artisans and laborers who worked there and the changing methods used in the construction of some of the finest warships to enter naval service."--Provided by the publisher.