Andrew Higgins

Andrew Jackson Higgins

Andrew Jackson Higgins memorial

Andrew Jackson Higgins (28 August 1886 – 1 August 1952) was an American entrepreneur, boat builder, and inventor who became famous for designing and producing the Higgins boat, a landing craft that played a crucial role in World War II. Higgins' innovative design significantly contributed to the success of the Allied forces during the war, particularly during the D-Day invasion of Normandy.

Early Life

Andrew Higgins was born in Columbus, Nebraska, and moved to Omaha, Nebraska with his family at a young age. He developed an interest in boats and watercraft early in his life, which led him to pursue a career in boat building. Before establishing his own company, Higgins worked in various jobs related to the lumber and boat-building industries.

Career

In the late 1920s, Higgins founded Higgins Industries in New Orleans, Louisiana. Initially, the company specialized in manufacturing small boats designed for use in the shallow waters of the Louisiana bayous. However, Higgins' focus shifted with the onset of World War II, as the need for military landing craft became apparent.

Higgins designed the LCVP (Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel), also known as the Higgins boat. This vessel featured a shallow draft, a flat bottom, and a front ramp, which allowed it to quickly and efficiently land troops and equipment on beaches, significantly reducing the exposure time of soldiers to enemy fire during amphibious assaults. The design was initially met with resistance from the United States Navy, but Higgins' persistence and demonstration of the boat's capabilities eventually led to its adoption.

World War II

The Higgins boat became a pivotal asset in numerous World War II campaigns, including the invasions of North Africa, Sicily, Italy, and most notably, Normandy on D-Day, 6 June 1944. General Dwight D. Eisenhower later credited Higgins with winning the war for the Allies, stating that his landing crafts were crucial to the success of the Allied invasion.

Post-War Period and Legacy

After the war, Higgins Industries returned to manufacturing commercial boats and attempted to diversify its products, including experimenting with helicopters and other ventures. However, the company struggled to replicate its wartime success and eventually closed.

Andrew Higgins' legacy lives on through his contributions to naval engineering and military strategy. His innovative design and production of the Higgins boat revolutionized amphibious warfare, making him a significant figure in military history.

Death

Andrew Higgins passed away on 1 August 1952 in New Orleans, Louisiana. His contributions to the war effort and the impact of his designs on modern military tactics continue to be recognized and celebrated.