SS Atlantic Seaman
The SS Atlantic Seaman was a 660 foot long vessel that was built by a company known as Philadelphia Tankers. The keel was laid down in April of 1949, and the ship was ready for launch by June of 1950.
During her time on the water, the SS Atlantic Seaman was a proud member of the Merchant Marine fleet. Like the other vessels that bore this proud distinction, the ship was used as a cargo vessel to carry products to and from the United States most of the time. However, if at any time the country was at war or suffering from a national emergency, her duties would be switched to a military nature, most likely for the transportation of troops and equipment to anywhere in the world that they were necessary.
To help keep this and other large ships operating smoothly, a large amount of insulation was needed throughout the vessel. Back in the 1950's, insulating materials were almost always made from a mineral that was found in large natural deposits - asbestos. This mineral quickly became one of the most commonly used resources in America because of its strength, pliability and natural resistance to fire. These qualities made it perfect as the primary ingredient for the insulation that protected sea going crafts.
Unfortunately, this miracle material came with a hidden secret that would not be revealed to the general public until the 1970's. Researchers had been performing studies on the mineral for decades, and slowly but surely people began to understand that asbestos is toxic, which makes it extremely dangerous for people to be around. Microscopic particles of asbestos have the ability to float, and they are often found high enough in the air to be inhaled by people who pass by them. Following the ingestion of even trace amounts of this hazardous substance, people can develop some serious health issues.
Tissue scarring, respiratory diseases and cancer are all results of exposure to asbestos. Perhaps the most well known disease that is often caused by breathing in asbestos particles is Mesothelioma. It is incurable, and often fatal. Everyone who sailed on board the SS Atlantic Seaman may have been exposed to the toxin, and become very sick because of it.
Last modified: December 28, 2010.
