Pile drivers are the men and women who drive columns of metal, concrete, or wood (known as "piles") into the earth during the early phases of a construction project. Pile drivers create the foundations for docks, wharves, buildings, and bridges. They are also involved with underwater work and offshore oil rigs.
Pile driving is a skill that is thousands of years old, but the work of pile drivers continues to be a crucial part of any new developments in the harbor.
A pile driver’s work is very physically demanding, and performed in all types of weather. They must use hand and power tools, torches, and heavy equipment. Often pile drivers must travel miles from home to reach a job site.
Take a look around the harbor, and you will discover that piles are everywhere. In fact, the building you are visiting right now was constructed with the help of pile drivers!
The Museum wishes to thank Pile Drivers, Bridge, Dock and Wharf Builders Local 2375 of Wilmington, California, for making this exhibit possible.
