"Once upon a time, it carried princes and potentates across the Atlantic in high style and at great speed." Thus begins Jon Hurdle's full-page
article about the SS
United States featured in Wednesday's business section of the
New York Times.
Highlighting the history of our beloved Lady in Waiting, journalist Jon Hurdle, along with a slide show by photographer Jessica Kourkounis, explores the unique opportunities offered by the record-holding United States.
The ship's historical significance extends beyond her record-breaking maiden voyage and the celebrities she once carried. The SS United States is the last surviving ocean liner built in America.
Despite the peeling paint, she is still
structurally sound. Recent tests show that her
hull retains 92% of its integrity. Because she was built in conjunction with the US Navy with the capability of being quickly converted to a troop ship, she not only was built to the highest standards, but many extra engineering features were implemented in her design and construction. This includes the
once-classified design of her innovative propellers, one of which was recently saved through the generosity of supporter Jim Pollin as reported
HERE.
The historic accomplishments and enduring structural integrity of this American icon is a testament to the innovation and mastery of her engineers and builders, and enhances her prospects for redevelopment. The New York Times points out that similar conversions of historic vessels, such as the successful mixed-use development aboard the Rotterdam in the Netherlands, can be profitable and successful.
The Conservancy has been working hard to find developers and investors to help give the historic ship a new life and new purpose as a mixed-use complex, which would include a museum showcasing 20th Century industrial innovation. The
SS United States Center for Design & Discovery would focus on science, engineering and technological advancements -- all of which were prevalent in the design and construction of the
United States. At this time, the Conservancy is deep in negotiations with several developers, each of which would move the ship back to New York, her former home port.
To read the
New York Times article, click
HERE.
As we continue to move closer to an agreement for a permanent home for America's Flagship and her redevelopment, it is even more critical that we continue the momentum to keep her afloat until that agreement is finalized. With the matching grant from Jim Pollin, every donation is being matched dollar for dollar, up to $100,000. If you've been waiting for the right time for your contribution to make a difference, now is the time. Your donation of $5, $50, or $500 will automatically become $10, $100, or $1,000 -- just by donating now.
Please help us to cross that final finish line toward her redevelopment by ensuring she remains afloat in the final stretch toward her new life and renewed purpose. Give whatever you can now, and consider becoming a member at one of our
Leadership Circles levels. You can make the difference in saving her today.
