North Spokane library hosts WWII shipyard history talk
Local author Beverly Lionberger Hodgins will discuss women welders and Augusta Clawson’s wartime reporting.
The regional history program begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2026, in the meeting room at North Spokane. Local author Beverly Lionberger Hodgins will discuss her research into wartime shipbuilding and the experiences of women welders in the Pacific Northwest.
From 1942 through 1945, women working at Portland, Oregon’s Swan Island Shipyard contributed to the construction of 153 tankers. They had entered industrial roles commonly held by men before World War II. Hodgins centers her book on Augusta Clawson, whom the U.S. government employed to secretly examine conditions affecting the shipyard’s women welders.
Hodgins developed the account using Clawson’s diary entries, private correspondence and formal government records. Her book is titled Shipyard Agent, with a subtitle connecting Augusta Clawson to World War II women welders. Spokane County Library District says its events are intended to welcome attendees of all abilities. People seeking hearing assistance, ASL or another ADA accommodation can contact comments@scld.org or 509.893.8200 no fewer than five business days before the program.
- Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 10 a.m.
- Meeting room at North Spokane
- Women helped construct 153 tankers from 1942 through 1945.
- Request accommodations at least five business days ahead.
- Accommodation contact: comments@scld.org or 509.893.8200.
Source: Spokane County Library District events ↗
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