Spanish Fort / Alabama / United States
Marspec Technical Products Founded in 1923 as a ship chandler, Marine Specialty Company was originally engaged in the business of supplying material and equipment to the maritime industry at the port of Mobile, Alabama. Our original location was in an imposing four story brick structure known as the "English Block" on Dauphin Street just a short distance from the bustling waterfront district. Mule drawn dray wagons bearing the Marine Specialty name were a common sight on the public and private docks of the city. Although the Great Depression of the 1930s took its toll on businesses in Mobile, Marine Specialty weathered the hard times primarily due to its reputation for service and the loyal following of its customers. In 1934 the young company suffered a major setback when the building burned to the ground. Through the hard work and determination of the employees and owners, the business was reestablished in new quarters on Water Street... a facility it would occupy for thirty years. During this time, Marine Specialty diversified into many fields including consulting engineering, general contracting, boiler erection and the then new science of air conditioning. Many of these divisions were spun off into separate free standing companies which exist today as successful enterprises. After World War II, an industrial construction boom occurred in the Mobile area. Paper mills, chemical plants, electric generating facilities and refineries were built and expanded. Being familiar with the piping, gaskets and steam specialties used aboard ships, Marine Specialty found itself with a new group of customers to serve... land based industry
