Many cargo vessels and tankers built as late as the 1940s had wooden fronts to their bridges, even though the rest of their superstructures were steel. (See the link below to a painting of a Glen Line ship.) Why was this so? Was the wooden front at these late dates merely a design feature, an echo of past practice, perhaps, or were there practical reasons? All comments are welcome. (I have posted this enquiry on other websites' forums.)
http://www.shippaintings.co.uk/JAlbum%2 ... 20Line.JPG