USS Robert L. Barnes (AO-14) was an oiler in the United States Navy. Robert L. Barnes was a steel tanker built during 1917 by McDougall Duluth Ship Building Company, Duluth, Minnesota, for the Robert Barnes Steam Ship Co.. Alexander McDougall built her as a prototype "rectangular ship" or "sea-going canal boat," with a plain, low hull and a superstructure that could be removed to pass under canal bridges.She was acquired from her builder by the U.S. Shipping Board on 29 June 1918; transferred to the U.S. Navy the same day; and commissioned at New York 19 October 1918. She remained in custody of the 3d Naval District while preparing for sea. Lt. G. C. Daniels assumed command on 29 January 1919.