In my continuing fascination with old stuff that we're not supposed to see inside of, I bring you the SS United States.

She's resting now in Philadelphia harbor after putting to sea the first time in 1952 and retiring in 1969. At a whopping 990 feet from stem to stern, at one time she was the fastest ocean liner on the high seas. In fact the SS United States set records that still have not been broken, believe it or not.

She could cross the Atlantic in just four days. Compared to today's fastest transportation, which will get you to Europe in just a few hours, that seems like forever. But for last sea-going vessels that's pretty darn quick. The reason she was so fast is it was made with a combination of steel and aluminum. The aluminum made her very light compared to most vessels and therefore very quick.

It's been resting in Philly's harbor since 1996 and been owned by several different groups over the years, all seeming to have grandiose plans to resurrect the once great ship.

Here's the good news:

According to a story in the NY Times, in February of 2016, a luxury travel company by the name of Crystal Cruises has signed a purchase option with plans to refit the "Big U" at a cost of $700 - $800 million.

I hope it happens. Until then, enjoy what she looks like today from YouTuber "Abandoned Steve" as he got permission last year to video the SS United States.

 

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