Susan L. Gibbs Film and Lecture

SS United States: Made in America

The SS United States captured world headlines in July 1952 with its record-breaking maiden voyage from New York to Southampton, England. One of the fastest ships in the world and one of the most luxurious passenger liners to cross the Atlantic, it quickly captured the hearts of those who sailed on it and those involved in its construction.

The ship, built in post-World War II Newport News, was designed as a luxury liner and top-secret Cold War weapon --- the SS United States could transport 14,000 troops more than 10,000 miles without refueling. Prior to her retirement in 1969, the ship carried a million passengers across the Atlantic, including four U.S. presidents, moguls, movie stars, tourists, and immigrants. While naval architect William Francis Gibbs oversaw the design of some 6,000 vessels over the course of his career, the SS United States was his greatest accomplishment.

Despite its fabled past, the historic liner’s fate remains uncertain. Purchased by the non-profit SS United States Conservancy in February 2011, plans are underway to re-develop the 990-foot-long liner as a stationary attraction, including a museum. Join us on Thursday, February 9th, as Susan L Gibbs, executive director of the SS United States Conservancy and granddaughter of William Francis Gibbs, will speak and premiere the Conservancy's new 45-minute film, SS United States: Made in America. Gibbs will offer a special "behind the scenes" perspective on her grandfather's 40-year quest to design the fastest ship in the world, her organization's improbable purchase and the Conservancy's efforts to save the SS United States for future generations.

In addition – for this evening only – The Mariners’ Museum Collections Department will be exhibiting original table, chairs, and place settings from the SS United States.

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