John Barkes is known to have built ships at Ravens Wheel, near Southwick, for at least a couple of decades in the mid 19th century. John Barkes was a local man who is more renowned for launching Sunderland's first iron vessel from George Clark's engine works at the Hudson Dock. His primary work however was done here until around 1863.

Barkes built primarily general cargo ships for various merchants in the North East. They ended up sailing routes across the Atlantic such as the New York to Falmouth route, Lisbon to Schiedam and Troon to Smyra.

The yard itself was one of a number that worked at Ravens Wheel. At least 4 men laid their name to this site, lining the quay from the lime kilns at Southwick down to Wreath Quay. Barkes' yard may be the one illustrated by Thomas Hair of Pemberton Main Colliery.

Barkes' last known vessel was the Accidental Star, a snow built for himself and later the Dent's of Blyth. Records show this was built at the Wreath Quay yard, so was probably on the southern extremities of Ravens Wheel. He was later made bankrupt in 1870, well after any known shipbuilding activity.

There is no trace today as the whole area has been redeveloped and landscaped.