US Navy Compartment ID Plate Crew's Mess

This is a Navy bulkhead plate marking the location of the Crew’s Mess (the enlisted dining area).

Breaking down the markings:

• "1-51-2" → Compartment designation code:

  • 1 = first deck below the main deck.

  • 51 = located near ship’s frame 51.

  • 2 = second compartment off the centerline (even = port side, odd = starboard side).

• "CREWS MESS" → Identifies the function of the space: this was the crew’s dining area.

• "B-107-1L" → Additional Navy coding:

  • B = below the main deck (sometimes used instead of just a deck number).

  • 107 = compartment number or frame reference.

  • 1L = further designator, often tied to compartment classification (living space) and side of ship.

Purpose:

This brass plate would have been bolted to a bulkhead or door so sailors knew exactly where they were on the ship. It also standardized navigation and was critical in damage control situations, where quick identification of spaces was vital.

4" x 2"