Navy·Technology obsolescence·In Memoriam
Sailmaker
SMK
Served: 1797–c.1900
Cut, stitched, and patched a warship's canvas — propulsion in textile form, repaired between watches by hand.
The Story
The rating's name survived in the warrant officer "Sailmaker" billet long after most US warships had no sails left to make. Job titles outlive jobs.
Epitaph
“Sewed the wind shut. Steam never asked.”
Sources
- NHHC — Enlisted Ratings 1775-1969www.history.navy.mil