Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary
America’s Flagship
This year, the United States of America celebrates its 250th anniversary. As we mark this moment in our nation’s history, we are reflecting on the SS United States’ significance in the history of her namesake nation.
Constructed entirely in America by thousands of workers with components from across the country, the Big U is testament to the ingenuity and achievement of her country. The pinnacle of technological and artistic accomplishment and a monument to the American can-do spirit, the SS United States represents our common values, our strengths, and the epic scope and scale of the country's ambition.
Built according to Navy standards with the capability to be converted into a troop carrier to transport 14,000 military service members for 10,000 miles without refueling, the Big U touched the lives of over one million passengers, thousands of crew members, and countless others who were thrilled by her mere presence in New York or Europe flying the Stars and Stripes.
A Global Ambassador
Patriotic decorations adorned the ship, and true to the ship's theme, every dining table aboard the Big U was decorated with Americana symbols. Small American and United States Lines flags were on every table alongside napkins featuring the US Lines Eagle crest and renditions of the SS United States. Menu covers showcased American monuments like the Statue of Liberty and Independence Hall to passengers from around the world.
A Warm Welcome to America
Photo from the Conservancy’s collection courtesy of Joan Browning.
Many of the Big U’s passengers on westbound voyages were deeply moved by viewing the Statue of Liberty, an iconic symbol of American freedom and patriotism, from the decks of America’s Flagship.
"I remember when we returned to NYC on the SS United States in 1966 – as we sailed by the Statue of Liberty again my father told me how special it was to be from the USA and be proud of your country. I have always connected the memory with this proud and beautiful ship."
- Carol Timmermans Roodhouse (First Class, 1962 and 1966)
"Seeing the Statue of Liberty from the sea, and thinking what it meant to people like my Holocaust survivor mother, blew my 8-year old's mind…"
- M.C. Votaw (1969)
"My most memorable memory was when we entered the NY harbor and the announcement was made that the Statue of Liberty could be seen on one side of the ship. When I saw her for the first time, I immediately felt that I came home…The SS United States made it possible for me to experience the wonderful future that was to come."
- Jack Schultz (1960)
The SS United States is more than the vessel that carried so many passengers around the world — she remains an enduring and inspiring national symbol that can bring us together as a nation.
Join Us
As we continue to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, will you add your support to our work celebrating an iconic American achievement, the SS United States?
While the Big U herself will soon be transformed to become the world’s largest artificial reef to benefit the marine ecosystem of the Gulf Coast, the Conservancy continues to share her history and indomitable spirit.
Her stories, and the stories of those who built her, sailed her, and are inspired by her will form the cornerstone of the future SS United States Museum and Visitor Experience.
Will you join us to commemorate the semiquincentennial with a $25, $250, or $2,500 donation to help us continue to celebrate the Big U?
All gifts are tax-deductible, thank you for your support!