Saving the SS United States
The legendary ocean liner the SS United States has been again spared the wreakers-ball due to the exemplary efforts of dogged and determined historic preservationists. The United States Conservancy, has assumed formal ownership of the rusting vessel, now berthed in Philadelphia. But the legendary liner still faces an uncertain future.
In July 2010, the Conservancy announced a pledge of $5.8 million by Philadelphia philanthropist H. F. "Gerry" Lenfest to purchase and maintain the vessel for twenty months. The Owners Norwegian Cruise Line/Genting Hong Kong entered an exclusive purchase option. The Conservancy has now formally bought the ship.
“We are one big step closer to ensuring that this great symbol of American innovation is permanently preserved,” stated Susan Gibbs, the Conservancy's board president, whose grandfather, William Francis Gibbs, designed the legendary liner.
“Now that we have secured title, we will accelerate our efforts to redevelop the nation's flagship as a multi-purpose waterfront destination with dynamic hotel, retail, educational and museum offerings, “ Ms. Gibbs said.
“This is the first time in the history of the SS United States that a group concerned primarily with the vessel's historical significance and preservation has owned her,” said Dan McSweeney, the Conservancy's Executive Director. Yet he added, “We can't truly say she's saved yet - that will happen when we establish a successful partnership to redevelop the ship--but we can say that we're generating the right momentum to be able to achieve that goal.”
Launched in 1952, the United States was the fastest ocean liner afloat which plied the trans-Atlantic crossing. The flagship of United States Lines, the ship was retired from service in the late 1960’s.
In New York the prestigious Swann Gallery offered a number of historic items and artifacts from the SS United States, as part of an auction of Ocean Liner and Transportation Memorabilia.
For further information log on to the www.ssunitedstatesconservancy.org
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