Quonset FAQ’s
What is the history of the Quonset huts?
In 1941, the United States Navy built an all-purpose, lightweight building that could be shipped anywhere in the world and assembled quickly and easily to support the troops in WWII. The Quonset design was modeled closely on the World War I Nissen Hut engineered by the British. The Navy found that they were able to maximize the flexible interior space of these structures since the building was an open clear-span design. In addition, they discovered that the rounded shape of the corrugated arch is one of the strongest structures in architecture which provided the shelter they needed during the war.
What were the Quonsets used for in World War II?
The Quonset Huts were used as shelter in a variety of applications including barracks, latrines, offices, medical and dental offices, isolation wards, housing and bakeries.
How many Quonset huts were manufactured during WWI?
Roughly 150,000 Quonset huts were manufactured for use during the war.
After WWII, what were Quonset Huts used for?
The U.S. Military sold the excess Quonsets to the public for approximately $1,000 each. Some of the buildings were used for temporary postwar housing in locations such as California and Michigan.
Are some of the original Quonsets still standing?
Yes. Many of the original buildings are still standing around the USA. The original Quonsets huts are still being used for commercial applications as well as military surplus stores. You can see photos of traditional Quonsets as they stand now from North Africa to the Aleutian Islands on www.waymarking.com.
I’m interested in a structure that I can cover with dirt and a concrete pad to support foot and bicycle traffic. Inside the building will house bathing facilities, offices and a kitchen/concession area.
Posted by Ben Cary on July 28th, 2009 at 8:09 pm
Thank you for your interest in a SteelMaster building. A design specialist will be touch with you to provide details for the custom structure you are looking to build. We appreciate the opportunity to potentially earn your business.
Posted by michellewickum on August 5th, 2009 at 2:29 pm
What is the amount of wind the different structures can withstand?
Posted by Kevin Dufrene on October 11th, 2009 at 4:34 pm
Thank you for your post! Our buildings can handle strong winds and have survived many hurricanes. We will have a steel building specialist contact you with more information.
Posted by Spike on October 12th, 2009 at 7:54 am
THE 29TH DIVISION WW2 REANACTORS IS INTERESTED IN A WW2 REPLICA HUT INSTALLED ON OUR PROPERTY IN CENTRAL VIRGINIA, WOULD YOU BE ABLE TO PROVIDE ME WITH A COST FOR CONSTRUCTION. THANK YOU MIKE MICUCCI
Posted by MIKE on November 16th, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Thank you for your post, Mike! We will have a quonset hut specialist contact you soon with a quote.
Posted by Spike on November 17th, 2009 at 6:08 am