Situated in the west Leith Docks – where Ocean Terminal shopping centre stands today – Henry Robb Ltd was a proud shipbuilding institution that opened its gates not long after the First World War.
The famous yard employed several thousand people at its peak and produced a long list of naval vessels and merchant ships.
Despite the best efforts of its 850-strong workforce, who took to the streets of Leith in a prolonged fight to save their jobs, Henry Robb’s, then the last active shipyard on the Forth, closed down for good in 1984.
The former shipyard featured prominently in the music video for The Proclaimers hit Letter From America.
Despite the best efforts of its 850-strong workforce, who took to the streets of Leith in a prolonged fight to save their jobs, Henry Robb’s, then the last active shipyard on the Forth, closed down for good in 1984.
. Launch of MU Athenian
The MU Athenian is launched at Henry Robb's Yard in 1966. Photo: Dick Ewart
. Caribbean Progress launched 1971
The Caribbean Progress ship was launched from Henry Robb's shipyard at Leith in October 1971. Photo: Ian Brand
. Henry Robb shipyard 1974
Exterior of Henry Robb Limited, Shipbuilders & Engineers at Leith in August 1974. Photo: Jack Crombie
. Shipyard workers
Henry Robb Ltd Ship Builders in Leith - Scene in yard, 1964. Photo: TSPL
. Launch of Caribbean Progress ship, 1971.
The Caribbean Progress ship was launched from Henry Robb's shipyard at Leith in October 1971 - seen here through a Henry Robb lifebelt. Photo: Ian Brand
. Aerial view of Henry Robb shipyard
Mid-20th century aerial view showing Leith Docks and Henry Robb shipyard. Photo: Contributed
5. Launch of Caribbean Progress ship, 1971.
The Caribbean Progress ship was launched from Henry Robb's shipyard at Leith in October 1971 - seen here through a Henry Robb lifebelt. Photo: Ian Brand
6. Aerial view of Henry Robb shipyard
Mid-20th century aerial view showing Leith Docks and Henry Robb shipyard. Photo: Contributed
7. Launching the Sangro
The Sangro is launched at Henry Robb's shipyard at Leith in March 1968. Photo: Crauford Tait
8. Checking the plans before welding
Men checking the plans for a hopper before welding, 1958. Photo: TSPL