The M/S Carolinian was the first entirely-welded motor ship built in the United States, and the world's first welded vessel constructed without perforating the watertight members for assembly.

Miles L. Clark is a known owner, with Texaco as the operator (notice the insignia on her stack prior to launch).

[5] Richard F. Smith, the designer, devised the lock notch welded system for which Charleston Dry Dock & Machine was the sole licensee.

[3] The success of the Carolinian's maiden voyage the following month, and two flawless subsequent dry-dock inspections spurred an "estimate" for six orders of similar ships in 1931.

[8][9] On March 9, 1934, the Carolinian rescued four fishermen from a squall near Elizabeth City, North Carolina, the homeport of this vessel.