January 12, 2019
Image courtesy of Paul Stipkovich, Co-Chair of the Conservancy's Co-Chair.
Have you made any New Year's resolutions? We have. In 2019, the Conservancy has resolved to work harder than ever toward an inspiring future for the SS United States .

Last month, the Conservancy entered into an agreement with a prominent commercial real estate development firm, RXR Realty, which will begin to explore options for the SS  United States ’ revitalization. Press coverage of this agreement has continued, as the story was recently picked up by Newsday . (If you missed the original announcement, you can read it HERE .)

This exciting announcement capped off a big year for America's Flagship. Supporters from all over the globe generously gave their time, money and attention in support of our nation's greatest and sole remaining ocean liner.

Here at the Conservancy, we have proudly continued our mission to raise awareness and funds for the Big U, while expanding our curatorial efforts. A few highlights from 2018 included:

  • The unveiling of a new flybridge banner, designed to let passersby to know about our continued mission.
  • The acquisition of dozens of historically significant new objects for our permanent collection, along with passenger lists, crew records, and vintage photographs
  • The SS United States Legacy Cruise to Bermuda, retracing one of the ship's historic routes while raising over $100,000 for preservation efforts. (P.S. Another cruise may be on the way next year, so stay tuned!)

With 2019 just getting started, we are excited about what lies ahead for this soaring symbol of national unity. We'd like to thank you again for your continued support , as we work to preserve her legacy for decades to come.
"Visible creations such as the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, Williamsburg and Jamestown, and yes, the SS United States , reveal to all of us the genius, courage and determination of the American creed. They are priceless symbols of what it means to be an American." — Rev. Dexter Garman
Sheet music courtesy of Gail Sims.
Did you know the SS United States has her own theme song? It's true! It's called " The SS United States : First Lady of the Sea ," and it was composed by Meyer Davis — a celebrated bandleader who managed all three of the Big U's talented orchestras.

Davis' 1952 composition salutes America's Flagship, celebrating her distinct and beautiful lines, "New York style, California grace, Midwest strength, Texas space, and her South-land charm."  

"First Lady of the Sea" distinctly captures the spirit of America's Flagship, but it's not the only piece of music penned in tribute to this unforgettable vessel. Another fine example is " Atlantic Riband " by acclaimed composer Kenneth Fuchs, who recently received his fourth career Grammy nomination. "Atlantic Riband" honors the SS United States ' record-breaking maiden voyage.
In 2019, the SS United States continues to inspire young and old alike. If you haven't done s o late ly, please spread the word about our mission to save America's Flagship, so that she can serve as a muse to current and future artists and musicians.
Good news! Just added to the Conservancy's gift shop : these beautiful, limited edition challenge coins, celebrating the Big U!

The front of this commemorative coin features a 3-D relief of the SS United States du ring her service career. The reverse of the coin displays the Conservancy ’s full-color logo and web site URL.

The 1.75″ 3.5mm coins are produced by Gray Water Ops, a company that is 100% veteran-owned and operated. Each coin comes in a small velvet bag, perfect for gift-giving!

Finally, 100% of the proceeds benefit the Conservancy, so you can rest assured that your purchase will support our efforts to create a lasting, meaningful future for the SS United States . To order yours today, CLICK HERE .
Help Us Save America's Flagship!
Among the thousands of passengers who traveled aboard the SS United States , there was one very special “crew member” who delighted everyone he met.

Chota Peg (his name is a Hindi expression meaning "small drink") was the loyal canine companion of Commodore John Anderson, the longest serving captain of the Big U. After being adopted by the Anderson family at four months of age, this "salty dog" frequently accompanied his master on voyages at sea.

According to Charles Anderson, son of Commodore Anderson (and president of our Board of Directors), Chota Peg enjoyed a pampered life on board America's Flagship, mingling with celebrities and being fed delicious scraps from the first class dining room.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Chota Peg's adventure-filled life. If you'd like, you can also add him as a friend on Facebook!
Chota Peg poses in front of the Big U's funnels.
Photograph courtesy of Charles Anderson.
Photograph courtesy of Mike and Peg Marinaro.
We'd like to take this opportunity to send a special "thank you" to those who donated to the Conservancy throughout 2018, and especially during our recent year-end appeal. Know that your incredible generosity is deeply appreciated and will greatly assist us in our efforts to preserve the wonderful SS United States for future generations .

For those who haven't made a donation recently, we'd like to remind you that it's never too late to support America's Flagship . And, though g eneral public access to the vessel   is  highly restricted , if you make a donation at the Captain’s Quarters membership level and above, you will be invited to join Conservancy staff on a special, limited-access tour of the SS United States and help contribute to the vibrant living history of this magnificent ship.
CLICK HERE to help us create a meaningful future for the SS United States .
"[The SS United States ] was built at a time when 'made in America’ really meant something, and that is a legacy that cannot be lost.  — H.F. “Gerry” Lenfest (1930-2018)