Poinsett (AK–205) was laid down as MC hull 2159 by Leatham D. Smith Shipbuilding Co., Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. 6 November 1943; launched 22 May 1944; sponsored by Mrs. Robert L. Rote; acquired by the Navy 22 January 1945; and commissioned at Houston, Texas, 7 February 1945, Lt. Comdr. Robert M. Baughman, USNR, in command.