OH MY GOD!!! This is the ship my mother and I come over to the United States on when I was 4.5 years old, a long time ago. This was in 1956 and it was a 6 days journey. We started in Hamburg GR. and docked in New York, USA. It is great to see this video because it brings back many memories. Too bad it is this bad of shape.
Yes-I remember seeing her in England in the late fifties. Wasn't she actually built with trooping in mind-using much aluminium in the superstructure? I had no idea she was still extant.
In 1957, when I was 7 years old, I crossed the Atlantic on this ship - England to the USA. I still have the USS United States Liner book they gave me on boarding. I also have a coin from the cowboy movie star Hop-Along Cassidy who was on board, and a stuffed tiger kids' toy my mom bought for me on board. It's eyes still glow in the dark. One night we were invited to eat at the captains table as my dad was an Air Force fighter pilot. In the middle of the Atlantic, we passed her sister ship, the USS America going the other way. Docked in New York. Good memories!
@@nonegone7170 That must be why the government sends agents to question you after a close encounter to see if you got any blood or fluids on you. Ive heard of that in many of the stories here!
Well hopefully most of you see this, by as of Today 1-28-16, it has been announced that the SS United States is going to be moved to a port in NYC to be redeveloped into a multi use attraction (Hotels, restaurants, shopping). The ship will not go to scrap!
+Abandoned Steve (Historical - Urbex) This is indeed great news. Far too many famous and important ships have gone to scrap. Primary among these lost ships is the WW II ship Enterprise. Here in Washington the Kalaka, a 1930s art deco ferry was scrapped. We would like to bring the USS Olympia home from Philadelphia to Olympia, WA.
+Abandoned Steve (Historical - Urbex) Your disclaimer at the beginning is great advice. But I still wish people would quit calling these places abandoned. "Abandoned" may apply to vehicle, or other object, that has been illegally dumped somewhere. It does not apply to real estate or other significant properties. These things belong to people. Just because someone isn't presently using something does not mean it's "abandoned." It sends the message to the easily impressionable, those like children, as well as to the moronic. Warning: Mess with the wrong person's property and you may suffer a far worse fate than merely going to jail.
On a field trip when I was in the 5th grade my class had a tour on this wonderful ship when she was in port in New York. I am now 68 years old and still remember the grandeur of this majestic traveler of the sea. As quieting as the pictures look today I think she is to be restored, a worthy project. Thank you for showing this program.
My father was chief steward on the SS United States back when it was first Commissioned I Believe In 1953 worked on it many years I used to see him on sailing day of go aboard the ship and he would take me to pick up to the bridge to the galleys engine room I got to explore the entire ship fantastic experience and the crew would give me Sylvan ears party hats and things of that nature also my mother she worked on the SS America the sister ship to the United States she was a child's nurse in the solarium how many years anyway yeah said to see this era gone was a great time both of the ships were beautiful I was lucky enough to experience boarding them many many times
Wow! What a Life!! It must have been a Fun Time, to be Alive back then!! I can Only Dream of what it would be like to Ride a Great Steam Ship, I wish I were Ridiculously Wealthy so I could Restore this Magnificent Lady!! - Cheers 👍🇦🇺😉
American Spirit, my family and I traveled on the SS United States when your father was chief steward. I was eight years old at the time and unfortunately I don't remember as much of that voyage as I would like. I do remember the salt-water pool and thought that if I went into it I would be sucked under water and into the ocean: a pool with no bottom I thought. I also remember being told and later noticing that the mid-century modern furniture had no wood; everything was aluminum to cut down on the weight. She was fast, in part, because she was light. I visited Philadelphia a couple of years back and took a walk down to the dock where she was moored. I was able to take some pictures through the tall chain-link fence. Tantalizingly close, so thanks to Abandoned Steve for the video and photos.
My father played piano on her and made about 4 trips to Europe in the mid 60s. My mom and all 6 kids would drop him off at the ship in NY. We would spend about an hour on her then say goodbye, travel down to a spot on the river to watch her go by and drive the 2 hours back to Blackwood, NJ. It was a very majestic vessel. And my dad would always brag about how fast she was. I believe he said during sea trials they actually had someone water ski off the back to illustrate her nearly 50 mph! Her true top speed was classified because of her potential of being used as a troop carrier.
Great video, I think the coolest part was just hearing all the sounds the ship made. Not just in that one clip of the C deck but in other points in the video too, like the indoor swimming pool.
The Proper People Thanks! Yea although I didn't film a lot inside, that sound was constant. I had to record it b/c I though it was really cool to hear!
Every time I go to Philadelphia I go to see her.... She's so beautiful, so gracious, so powerful, truly a work of art. I would love to see this beauty get restored and sail the seas again.
Shall we say $500-$750 million to restore? Dry dock for complete scraping and re painting AFTER a complete safety and engineering examination action and overhaul, complete new engines, replacing parts of hull and super structure and bulkheads, new furniture and complete interior decoration. It would be a grand dame of the seas but could it even be financially feasible?
My dad was a baker on the SS United States from 1964 until her last voyage in 1969. Before the SS United States, he worked for Cunard on the SS Independence and took some trips on the SS Constitution. He traveled the world and brought us back such wonderful gifts. Good times. :) He died in 2008 but he always said he loved the SS United States trips the best.
I travelled on this ship when I was 4 years old it was 1961 from Europe to New York and I remember the first class dining the stateroom and standing outside on the deck to scared to go to the rail. My father was in the Army and we were coming home from Germany. It brings tears to my mothers eyes and saddens me.
I wish we still had more ocean liners today. Instead we have crappy cruise ships that cost a fortune and are honestly kinda ugly in my opinion. Ocean liners are very beautiful ships and shouldn't go to waste like this.
The problem is that there isn't a market for ocean liners today. But I think it would be absolutely possible to build a nice looking ship that fits in the modern cruise market. What do you think about this: img15.deviantart.net/f645/i/2009/263/f/d/france_2_by_majaorca100.jpg
They look like giant high-rise condominiums sitting atop ugly, poorly designed hulls, with amusement parks slapped on top of them. Absolute monstrosities.
A little more information on the ship since I see a lot of comments about it never sailing again. That is correct, the ship will never sail again. They are not looking for a buyer to fix it up and sail it again. The screws (props) and all the shafts have been removed. The engine room is intact but too far gone. It would cost less money to rebuild a new ship to look like this one. What they are trying to do is find someone to take it and turn it into a riverfront hotel, casino, restaurant, mall, anything commercial. They had a few chances but nothing went through from what I read. The boat will not stay at this port if it is indeed sold to become a commercial venue. It is only here as a spot to keep it docked. This port is an active shipping port and the public would never be allowed on it. The ship still floats and does not take on a lot of water from what I am told. The interior furnishings were sold in the 80s. The owner of the ship at the time wanted money and that is what he did. In the 90s it went to Turkey to have all it walls removed due to asbestos.
+osogrande2 Obama ass kisser? I hate the pricki! The problem with trump is we are going to the same place on a different train. You like me are hoping for a change before there is no USA. The asshole living on our dime at 1600 penn will sell out this country for a loaf of bread. The difference is trump owns the bakery. He isn't going to work with anyone and get anything done. the guy is no Reagan, he is the polar opposite of what we have now with the same ego! We belly up to the bar with this other prick, the tab is owers. Just remember you can't get rid of them for at least 4 years,and then they may get another 4 like this prick.The pig in a pantsuit isn't the answer, she would lie in the confessional. I hate democrats, but donny is one in the guise of a savior!!
I'm currently reading the 6th and last volume of Frank O. Braynard's series about the S.S. Leviathan, another American liner. She was originally Germany's Vaterland, seized by the U.S. in 1917 and after the war had a massive re-conditioning led by William Gibbs, designer of the S.S. United States. He had no blueprints so had to get every space on the ship measured and it was converted from coal to oil-burning. As the passenger liner (again) Leviathan and with one of my relatives as Staff Chief there was an elaborate story of private and government ownership that eventually had the Leviathan laid up in 1934 and scrapped in 1938 when she should have been put in the Reserve Fleet. The "Big U" can sail to any port on earth without refueling and can be turned into a troop transport in 48 hours but I suppose that's impossible now and that the liner would be an easy target for today's missiles. The mix of government and private business seems to have kept both liners from more years of service. Too neither had adequate running mates.---Glad to see the propeller: William Gibbs wanted the best on his staff regardless of sex, religion or race. The propellers were designed by Elaine Kaplan who was Jewish when plenty of businesses would not have hired a woman or a Jew or both.--You and your viewers might like to read "S.S. United States--The Story of America' Greatest Ocean Liner" by William H. Miller, 1991. I believe that Mr. Miller also assemble and wrote "The Picture History of the S.S. United States" published in recent years by Dover Books. I'd like to also recommend "A Man and His Ship" (about Gibbs and the S.S.U.S.) by Stephen Ujifusa, 2013, and "S.S. United States--Red, White and Blue Riband Forever" by John Maxtone-Graham, 2015, All of these are great reading about our great liner.
I boarded the SS United States in Le Harvre, France on May 18, 1963, crossed the English Channel to Southhampton, England and then on to NYC. At that time we had the opportunity to fly back to NY but my parents chose the SS US and boy am I glad. It is a memory I'll not forget. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing what is left of the interior of the ship. I swam in the swimming pool and watched movies in the theatre and have pictures of us on the ship, at dinner, etc. Wish I had a Hundred Million or two to restore this maiden of the sea.
Super video. My late father remembered when she sailed in to the Port of Southampton on her maiden voyage. She took the Blue Ribbon, for the fastest Trans-Atlantic crossing. She had been going so hard, that all the paint had been stripped from her bow! Also, one steam tug Captain was hell-bent on beating her up Southampton Water that, according to dad, he was even burning his bed socks to get enough speed to beat her! Glad to see the grand old lady is still in existence & afloat. I just hope the preservation group can get her back to her original glory.
My brother and I had a wonderful childhood. My dad was a Ships Chief Engineer and we got to visit so many beautiful liners and vessels. My favourite ship of the Orient Line's RMS "Oronsay". Loved that ship and loved travelling on her. I would love to visit this once beautiful ship ss "United States". Must put it on my bucket list.
About as likely as the Arabs and Jews hugging one another and declaring peace in the middle east. It's going to become a giant pierside 7-11 in New Yawk
Sailed on her to France in 1956. It was quite a ride, I remember she had a constant low vibration as she steamed along. Joan Crawford, the actress was on board and I got her autograph. I live near her and see her from time to time.
This vessel is not in too bad of a shape. Lots of work needed but the hull integrity has not been compromised and it all looks like surface rust. Even the Pit (Engine Room/Boiler room) looks ok. I remember seeing this ship in 2008 while I was active duty in the U.S. Navy. and its a real beauty. I will love to see it back in good shape. I wish I lived closer to the coast... I would volunteer to help restore ships like this (even if it was just for pier show, as I imagine the propulsion must be missing key parts) since I have plenty of experience acquired from my years as an Machinist's Mate in the fleet.
As a Mariner, and a Ship fanatic, they have let her go too long. Too much has been removed from this Grand Lady. I'm afraid She's doomed. With all my heart I wish that was not so.
+jisidorfisk, I agree. She has been totally stripped. There is nothing left to restore. A huge endeavor and Millions of $$$$. I think she will go to the breakers. If there was anything left inside maybe, but she is nothing but a Hulk.
Javier Escuella yes, and she is the pride of USA, its not like any ordinary old building which needs to be restored, its one of the most unique ocean liners ffs.
As a youngster in the late 1950's, I visited and toured this ship prior to its departure for Europe when my German grandfather returned to his homeland after 50 years in the USA. Amazing and beautiful ship. So sad to see it today.
Great video, especially the dissolve at 1:02 from historic to current. Just to restate, I was on the deck of the RMS Queen Elizabeth in 1956 in New York harbor sailing for Southampton, UK and remember passing the SS United States in her mooring with everyone on deck marveling at her size and modern design; after all, the QE was already 19 years old although she'd been refitted after WWII. Amazing that you were able to still inspect a 63-year-old ocean liner- most are scrapped at only half that age. Shame though that her entire interior was ripped out down to her skeleton. Interesting also that Cunard's new Queen Mary II is capable of 29.3 knots, but still ambles across the Atlantic in 7 days.
Thank you for posting this. I never sailed on her but walked her decks twice during bon voyage parties for my grands parents when they sailed her to Germany. They also sailed her sister ship, the SS America. They were both beautiful but the Big U was special.
The pinnacle of transatlantic passenger ship service. She’s about 10 years younger than the SS America, not a ‘sister’. I won’t fall into the trap of saying never, but the demand for point-to-point travel is a sweet spot of speed, comfort and COST; little or no demand for transportation from the U.S to England that takes five days and costs considerably more than a couple hundred dollars. Too bad, a relatively brief productive life for arguably the best transatlantic liner.
It all revolves around money. It cost millions of dollars a year just for it to sit there. On top of that it would take 30-40mil to restore/refurbish so thats why.
It is one of a handful of "golden-era" ocean liners left; and it is deserving of restoration. Long -overdue. Can't wait to see it restored to its former glory?!
Nothing would be original. She has been stripped, and corrosion has already taken over. It would be cheaper at this point, to build a replica. Time and neglect, has doomed her.
I drove past this ship when I visited Philly in 2007, it was a sight to behold even in this condition. I just wonder if it ever will be possible to save it from being scrapped
im a fan of the eagles nfl team i have a tattoo of their logo on my neck she more than deserves to get some tlc tender lovin care if i had millions of dollars i would restore her lol im from tacoma washington my favorite baseball team is the seattle mariners GO MARINERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! it would be such a dream come true
It truly is sad that the U.S. has been allowed to fall into disrepair. I hope it can be saved and returned to its former glory. It will take a great amount of care and refurbishing. What a tremendous shame it would be to watch Her sink.
Shouldn't surprise you. Hell, the whole country is in disrepair, take a look around you Alan Ingram, the predators who run this country have fed off of it for over a hundred yrs and now are abondoning ship, in more ways than one!
We left Bremerhaven Germany on the USS General Patch four days before the USS United States which was docked next to us left in June 1959. It passed us half way across the Atlantic and was in New York when we arrived. What a beautiful ship it was.
it doesn't look to bad. Sand blast it and some fresh paint on the outside, and it looks good as new. The inside is already stripped down to the bare metal, so that saves alot of money to dispose the old crap, and man hours, so a new interior could be fitted right away, and that could be a hotel, nightclub, theatre, cinema, restaurant, whatever. And as a operational ship, but somewere permanent docked in a harbour that attracks alot of tourist and locals.
Regardless, the only thing the SS United States has going for her is speed. The reason for the speed is the government wanted her fast enough to be used as a fast transport if need be. The finest trans Atlantic liners were known for their luxury as well as their speed. And if tax dollars are needed to restore this ship, well...no.
She's more than fast. She's a result of advanced engineering of that time and she still exists. You can't save SS France, SS America, RMS Mauretania, RMS Queen Elizabeth etc. anymore. They are all gone, luxury or not, but you can still save this ship
I was 8 and on the maiden voyage Brings back so many great memory's such a shame it's going to waste I walked up the stairs an the beginning I don't know how many times
I saw my Uncle, Aunt and cousin off on a voyage on this amazing ship in it's prime. It makes the bloated cruisers of the 21st century look like restaurant doggie bags.
I remember going on board this ship in the 50's while it was docked in New York City. My sisters and I went with my aunt from Bloomfield, NJ. We lived in Charlotte, NC and were visiting her. It was so grand and everything was so neat and shinny. I know there are a lot of people who think she should be restored and that sounds good but I could not imagine what that would cost. I know it would be hundreds or even thousands of times the money it cost to build it. In the 50's, it was "THE" ship. I retired off the USS Forrestal CVA-59 (an aircraft carrier) in 1979. The Forrestal was built about the same time as the SS United States but the Forrestal is no longer with us. I think it was used as scrap metal. Ships just don't last forever.
@@mohammedjamal8439 I was actually stationed aboard the USS Forrestal two times. The first in 1964 when it was home ported in Norfolk, VA and the second time when it was home ported in Jacksonville, FL in 1977 and retired from the Navy in 1979. I was the line division chief at that time. Working on the flight deck was thrilling to say the least.
This was great! Back when I used to cross the Walt Whitman Bridge into Philly I would see this boat but I never knew the story behind it. One time I even drove down columbus ave. to get a better look. I just could not believe how big it was right up close. I hope one day they are able to restore the boat to its former glory. Even if it's docked like the Mushulo and turned into a tourist attraction with a restaurant and maybe even guest rooms then it would bring jobs and money into that area. I would imagine that the cost to restore the ship and make it a place where people would come to dine and stay would be prohibitive. I am glad that you took the time and effort to go there and show us what it's like and give us a little history. I don't want to sound like I'm complaining but it would be really cool to see some pictures of what it was like originally contrasting the pictures of today. You have earned a like and a sub for this great piece that has quenched my curiosity of this ship.
It's the troublesome 3%. The nutters of society who consistently dislike everything that's good in life. Check out all good videos and stories - always 3% are pissed off by giving a thumbs down. Why!
Saw her back in 1999 in Philly when I was a truck driver, and made a delivery down the street I brought from L.A. I remember her from my childhood days in the 50's. Glad to see she will be refurbished and put to good use in NYC. She deserves it.
I was on this ship in 1969 with my family coming back from Germany...back to the US ...best time of my life...food was great. Sure wish they could refurbish it !
@@johnkirby4290 you bet. it was mostly aluminum to keep the weight down. the age old trick of low weight and high power. That's what aircraft carrier engines with 2x less weight will do!
I've always loved ships and shipwrecks. Steve if you could, would you explore more more Abandoned Ships and/or Shipwrecks (that are visible, above, or out of the water)?
I sailed on the S.S. United States in 1957, coming from Le Havre to New York. My Dad had been stationed in Italy and then Germany and that's how you crossed the Atlantic back then, as there were no trans-Atlantic flights. We sailed into Naples, Italy on board the S.S. Constitution, having gone through Hurricane Hazel at full force for 3 days. I feel privileged to have crossed the Atlantic twice by those majestic ocean liners.
I’m glad it was you Steve one of my favorite You Tubers that did this video I’m 55 years old and since i was a child the SS United States has been my favorite vessel ! When i reached adulthood. I was able to peruse my love for boating and nautical dreams by owning almost 20 different vessels and exploring the Carribean. On one as well as many other adventures ive stood on the sidewalk by that very Ship stating at her for hours myself wondering what her condition was inside and on the decks thanks for the video and pictures it still breaks my heart to see such a magnificent piece of history and engineering just decaying before our eyes although i did have my children. With me to show why i thought the ship was so. Pretty in boating its all about what we call the lines of a vessel the overall shape that gives a boat or ship its silhouette in the water. That makes her pleasing to the eyes ! I fell in love with the United States Ship because a Great Uncle of mine built a model of her when he was a kid and it was still on display at his parents home when i was a kid ! Luckily for myself my parents relocated our family to Florida where i had plenty of oppurtunity to get involved with water sports and boating i even bought my first boat Before a car !
Seeing the hull I envisioned what the" TITANIC would look like if she were above water. BOY they really stepped her well inside. I remember her well as a preteen when we would drive on the West Side Highway and see her brother on the Hudson. Many decades later,leaving Phili my eyes couldn't believe what they saw while on the highway. I knew it was her by her unmistakable smoke funnels. IF I hit the Mega I would donate a mill just for the exterior on a paint job and see how much could be painted for that amount. Thanks for the video and closeups. It satisfied my curiosity
To this day, the SS United States is still the holder of the Blue Riband, designating her as the fastest of all Ocean Liners ever to have been in existence.
+RKWWWW The Blue Riband record came in the bargain. The ship was built in association with the navy to be converted into a fast troup transport ship if needed. The SS US was equipped with aircraft carrier engines with more than 240 000 hp, the earlier Blue Riband holders SS Normandie and RMS Queen Mary had both "only" 160 000 hp each. 1/3 more power in combination with 1/3 less weight made her invincible.
Nope unfortunately Sir Richard Branson took the Ribbon from her with a specially designed speed boat that was probably less than 60 ft long compared to a 990 ft cruise ship that took waves like they weren't even there.I was onboard one day and she broke her lines and floated away from the dock and I didn't know for over 3 hrs until I opened the hatch to see why the next guard wasn't there to relieve me lol. American ship building at it's finest and not a single computer to aid in design. True piece of history
loved the pics and music at the end; made me think of the hotel in 'The Shining' I'm a Brit, but it's sad to think a ship named after your country is left to rot😕
I remember as a child in the 1960s having several small metal models of famous ships. My favourite was actually the SS United States because I liked the shape and the colour scheme of the funnels. I liked the Canberra too. Regards from The UK
@@mohammedjamal8439 That must have been great for your grandfather .. the SS United States was certainly one of the nicest looking ships on the sea .. far better looking that some of the modern day cruise ships.
This ship was not designed for a simple Caribbean cruise ship. That is not what it was built for. Many American wealthy and movie stars of it's day rode on her. It's like the QM-1 OE-1 and the Normandy. These were called "Ocean Liners" because they were built to cross the Atlantic Ocean and withstand the gigantic rogue waves that will swamp any of these new Carrabin tall cruise ships. When the first time the SS United States sailed the Atlantic to England it was faster than the "Cunard's Queen Ocean crossing liners" and won the title and trophy. It deserves better especially because there would be no way an Ocean Liner this large could afford to be built today. It does not need engines. Just a good sand blasting down to the bare metal and repainted. Then a new interior set as a Trophy near the Statue of Liberty as a large Hotel and repainted it's original colors with the wording the "SS United States" back on both sides of the bow. The U. S. already has the original British Cunard's old Queen Mary in Long Beech California. It is now called the Hotel Queen Mary. The least some American Billionaire could get up and going for this still proud Ocean Liner.
Just take example of the SS Rotterdam in Holland. This ship was bought by the Dutch govenment, restored to her original condition and the city of Rotterdam gave her a mooring place for free, where she's now a museum/hotel ship. They can't even give the SS US a free docking space. And at first I would make the exterior look sound, just sandblast and paint her. The interior could wait.
I was on this ship as a child and me and my family came from England to the usa. i remember the statue of liberty as my first memory coming here. My parents allways had us dressed up nice and professional allways. And my dad was proud to say this ship was faster than the QE. If not for this ship i would not be here now. It saddens me to see this video. I wish she was laid to rest or restored. It should be embarrassing for all of us to see her in this shape.
There built to sail the heavy going Atlantic and Pacific seas. higher first decks, stronger hull design to withstand some of the worst storms. they carry less passengers as they devote more of there height to hull than cabins. but theres not many seas that they cannot sail.
I sailed on the big ship twice, once in 1959 to Germany (my dad was in the Army) and then the voyage back home in 1962. On the latter trip I recall seeing the Manchurian candidate movie with Frank Sinatra. I was 12 years old and my parents allowed me to wander around the ship. The indoor pool was very small but functional.
On the one hand, so sad to see such a great ship in its' present condition, while on the other, great to see her still afloat! I joined the British merchant marine as a young radio officer in 1960 and throughout that decade came across many great liners plying their trade across the North Atlantic. I remember seeing the beautiful lines of the 'US', on a number of occasions, just fleeting glimpses of her as she appeared out of the gloom, passing by like a mercurial phantom before being quickly shrouded by the ever present spume and spray. A magnificent ship, never used to her full potential, unfortunately. Political interference, dare I say? However, she remains up there with the best of them - earning her right to the Blue Riband!
+William Rance Beautifully put. She was almost like the Concorde of ocean liners, and could do 45 knots, though that made her also a gas guzzler, if I have my facts straight. During the mid 80s I was lucky enough to go on a cruise on the Royal Princess, and though I had a balcony cabin (the "Aloha" deck) I spent about as much time topside as I could, especially at night, yet never saw another passenger ship except in port because there were so much fewer of them then, and still wonder what I would have been like to see one pass, as many on cargo ships saw us pass. When it was overcast at night we seemed to be riding in our own bubble of light, the clouds above us and the sea for some distance softly reflecting the many lights of the ship. One night I struck up a conversation about astronomy with the first mate (or whatever the next in line from Captain is called) and had a private tour of the bridge, which we had all to ourselves, and was surprisingly spacious and simple in layout, with a great big old flat-screened CRT on which the radar image was laid out like a map. The fastest we went was over a glassy stretch in the Pacific north toward Acapulco, at 22 knots. During evening twilight I put the full moon, which was near the horizon, into the field of my binoculars while bracing them against the railing, and saw that we were pitching and/or yawing by less than half a degree, very slowly. We seemed to be what sat still, while the water planet slid by. Peace out.
+James Roach Hi, James. First Mate it is! Though on a cruise ship they probably give the professional title of Chief Officer, or First Officer, perhaps. A little up market to please the passengers. A ship's navigation bridge is a magical place to be on a star-lit night. It is a place for a man to gaze upon the stars, reflect upon his own place within the heavens. It strips away the stresses, and all that is ill in human terms. I have sailed upon the major oceans of the world, apart from Antartica. I have walked upon every continent, except Antartica. I have sailed upon eighty odd ships within my twenty-three years sailing as a merchant mariner, on all kinds of ships. But, my lasting memories will be of those beautiful great liners, the 'United States', the British Cunard 'Queens' and the their French sisters' as they gracefully passed us by in all their majesty and superior turn of speed - what a privilege to see.
She was so beautiful♡♡ Hopefully justice will come to this ship because she doesnt deserve to be left, abandoned like this. She is HISTORY, and at least make a museum of it😖
I sailed her from NYC to Le Havre in 1952. Still have a picture of myself at the pool with a USS US life ring around my shoulders. It was my third of seven major ocean voyages. Enjoyed all of it. Thank you tax payers.
That is a amazing ship!! I cant imagine the money to upkeep and maintenance on a ship like that....but she's so classy!!! I hope they did move her and use her for something amazing again!!
I watched a video about this ship and it’s pretty sad. It was passed from owner to owner to owner and had plans for so many different ideas from repurposing it, to turning it into a docked hotel. And nobody ever was able to fulfill those plans. Instead it sits where it is, gutted and all those memories are held with it. Some even thought to scrap it for the metal. Would be such a shame. I love ships the same way my dad loved planes. I especially love old ships. I find them so interesting. I’d love to see this ship finally have another destiny and be used for something cool and important rather then be scrapped or purposely sunk for an artificial reef. It’s just such a shame that it’s sitting there in the dock, rotting away and seeing it’s interior so bare and lifeless. No lights, no real homelike walls or furnishings.....so empty. It’s saddening to think as it’s sits now. It was one a beautiful ship and has lots of history. I believe President Clinton even was on this ship when he was young. And I’ve seen many comments about people who’ve been on the SS US as a child. It’s really interesting but also saddening to see. I hope it sees a good and useful future at some point soon.
@@Doveproductions73 it was a joke, because ur name is RMS Olympic and that was the only Olympic-class ship that got scrapped, while Titanic and Brittanic both sunk, therefore the joke that you were jealous for being scrapped and not to as you say "live on as a reef". xD
garvinhooper , good way to put it. I would personally like to see the second American Revolution start and stop all the corrupted B.S. Overthrow and replace this corrupted government, if that's what you call it, that has screwed and failed the real American Constitutional Patriotic people like me time and time again. Lets then fix the country, and then fix this beautiful ship. I remember when she was in Norfolk, Virginia, near the Norfolk Naval base. I got to tour the ship before they degutted her. She still had her luxurious carpeting and fixtures. Outdated but beautiful. One of my friends worked where she was docked back then and he took me and a few friends to check her out . We were in the Navy at the time. She was worth seeing.
This ship was a strategic weapon of the United States. It's hidden purpose is to transport an infantry division to Europe in 3 days in case of war. It holds the record of fastest ship in the world at only 2/3 throttle. It's secret top speed was actually 50 mph or 44 knots. It would have been a very difficult target for a submarine. It could leave an Iowa class BB on the far horizon.
From Wikipidia.... "On February 4, 2016, Crystal Cruises announced that it had signed a purchase option for the SS United States. Crystal would cover docking costs in Philadelphia for nine months while conducting a feasibility study on returning the ship to service as a cruise ship based in New York City. It was announced on April 9, 2016 that 600 artifacts from the SS United States would be returned to the ship from the Mariners' Museum, and other donors. The plan was formally dropped on August 5, 2016, citing too many technical and commercial challenges. Crystal Cruises then made a donation of $350,000 to help with preservation through the end of the year."
this would be cool to have as a floating hotel refurbished interior or even just using it as a classic special cruise ship you know old time themed idk theres a lot they could do with this its a shame to let it rot away tho its 2019 and probably gone by now.
I don't think it would ever make the money back it had cost to refit the ship and make it ready for service again, by the time the next refit came up the owners would most definitely still be in the negative from the first restoration and refit.
MY FAMILY AND I WERE ON THIS SHIP FROM NEW YORK TO FRANCE AND THEN BACK FROM FRANCE TO NEW YORK IN 1963. WE WENT THREW HURRICANE FAITH IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ATLANTIC. IT WAS SCARY BUT WE MADE IT BACK TO NEW YOORK IN ONE PIECE. LOT OF GREAT MEMORIES ON THAT SHIP
Thanks for the video. I've known about the SS United States, but didn't know what happened to it. I feel it reflects what the USA itself has become! Best to scrap it. Time to start over & not make the same mistakes as in the first place. It will never sail again & would probably be too costly to turn into a hotel or shopping area.
+Ethercruiser1 " Best to scrap it. Time to start over & not make the same mistakes as in the first place. It will never sail again & would probably be too costly to turn into a hotel or shopping area." Yea but what about the ship?
What did he say that is so wrong? Even if it's sold as a floating venue of some kind that attempt will cost so much money it would not be worth the investment. The reality is, and I say this with regret, it's fate is recycled scrap otherwise it will stay here and rot even more. Face it they left it too long.
OH MY GOD!!! This is the ship my mother and I come over to the United States on when I was 4.5 years old, a long time ago. This was in 1956 and it was a 6 days journey. We started in Hamburg GR. and docked in New York, USA. It is great to see this video because it brings back many memories. Too bad it is this bad of shape.
You are 67 years old
Too bad the USA is in such bad shape now too
That might just be the coolest thing I've read all day! That ship is a huge part of your life's story.
That might just be the coolest thing I've read all day! That ship is a huge part of your life's story.
Matthew Fogarty Most of Western Europe. I know you guys are brainwashed to an extent but there are far, far better
countries in which to live.
In 1956, when I was 12 years old, my Grandmother and I travelled to England on this ship.
Yes-I remember seeing her in England in the late fifties. Wasn't she actually built with trooping in mind-using much aluminium in the superstructure? I had no idea she was still extant.
@@johnjephcote7636 Are you talking about the Grandmother or the ship????
Gosh buddy, those memories could never be replaced! Thx for sharing your experience!
My grandfather was the captain of that ship until the end of the sixties
In 1957, when I was 7 years old, I crossed the Atlantic on this ship - England to the USA. I still have the USS United States Liner book they gave me on boarding. I also have a coin from the cowboy movie star Hop-Along Cassidy who was on board, and a stuffed tiger kids' toy my mom bought for me on board. It's eyes still glow in the dark. One night we were invited to eat at the captains table as my dad was an Air Force fighter pilot. In the middle of the Atlantic, we passed her sister ship, the USS America going the other way. Docked in New York. Good memories!
+TruegrassBoy Thank You so much for sharing that information
Sounds great
you truelly have a special memory, now its time to lay this ship to rest
"It's eyes still glow in the dark."
Sounds... radioactive.
@@nonegone7170 That must be why the government sends agents to question you after a close encounter to see if you got any blood or fluids on you. Ive heard of that in many of the stories here!
As a student, I voyaged on this beautiful ship in September 1969 from NY to Calais/Dover. A singular unforgettable experience.
David Terry ...WOW! WHAT A THRILL! EVEN NOW.
I sailed on it from Cherbourg to New York in 1964 Was not aware it went to Calais or Dover 🤔
David Terry you were lucky to be alive at that time I would of been scared.... because I don’t like to be on the water...
Me too - Twice. 67 and again 69. Roundtrip both times. My best times 😍
Us too. NY>Bremerhaven 30 Jun '67, great trip
Well hopefully most of you see this, by as of Today 1-28-16, it has been announced that the SS United States is going to be moved to a port in NYC to be redeveloped into a multi use attraction (Hotels, restaurants, shopping). The ship will not go to scrap!
good news
fantastic news. it would be a true loss of American history to let this ship go to the scrap yard.
+Abandoned Steve (Historical - Urbex) This is indeed great news. Far too many famous and important ships have gone to scrap. Primary among these lost ships is the WW II ship Enterprise. Here in Washington the Kalaka, a 1930s art deco ferry was scrapped. We would like to bring the USS Olympia home from Philadelphia to Olympia, WA.
+Abandoned Steve (Historical - Urbex) Have you ever heard of Philip A.S, Franklin, or John Merriman Franklin or Jack Rand ?
+Abandoned Steve (Historical - Urbex) Your disclaimer at the beginning is great advice. But I still wish people would quit calling these places abandoned. "Abandoned" may apply to vehicle, or other object, that has been illegally dumped somewhere. It does not apply to real estate or other significant properties. These things belong to people. Just because someone isn't presently using something does not mean it's "abandoned." It sends the message to the easily impressionable, those like children, as well as to the moronic. Warning: Mess with the wrong person's property and you may suffer a far worse fate than merely going to jail.
On a field trip when I was in the 5th grade my class had a tour on this wonderful ship when she was in port in New York. I am now 68 years old and still remember the grandeur of this majestic traveler of the sea. As quieting as the pictures look today I think she is to be restored, a worthy project. Thank you for showing this program.
+Anthony Naporano That is so cool. Thanks so much for sharing thay
Beautiful BIG ship, I like the shape, today's ships looks like a sideways building.
yes that is what they look like! lol
A ship's Captain once referred to those cruise ships as "Top Heavy Pieces of Junk". I tend to agree.
I was on that ship with my family years ago. Sill have pictures of her when she was in prime. I'm 56 now old memories
Thanks .
Thank you for sharing your experience with TH-cam!
please publish those pictures so we can see its beauty
If u have the photos please publish them. It would be grand to see her in her former beauty.
Sailed on this ship in 1967 on my way to Germany with my Oma and Opa. Still have my photos and wonderful memories.
Oh wow, would you mind sharing any of the photos. Mainly ones of the ship itself?
cool
Karin Hubbell post some pics pls
My mom sailed on this ship back in the 50's to go back home to Germany to visit her parents, my Oma und Opa. ❤️
Karin Hubbell that's fantastic!
My father was chief steward on the SS United States back when it was first Commissioned I Believe In 1953 worked on it many years I used to see him on sailing day of go aboard the ship and he would take me to pick up to the bridge to the galleys engine room I got to explore the entire ship fantastic experience and the crew would give me Sylvan ears party hats and things of that nature also my mother she worked on the SS America the sister ship to the United States she was a child's nurse in the solarium how many years anyway yeah said to see this era gone was a great time both of the ships were beautiful I was lucky enough to experience boarding them many many times
Wow! What a Life!! It must have been a Fun Time, to be Alive back then!! I can Only Dream of what it would be like to Ride a Great Steam Ship, I wish I were Ridiculously Wealthy so I could Restore this Magnificent Lady!! - Cheers 👍🇦🇺😉
Oh the poor SS America. Both ships met an awful fate.
Let’s just hope the United States gets a new life someday
American Spirit, my family and I traveled on the SS United States when your father was chief steward. I was eight years old at the time and unfortunately I don't remember as much of that voyage as I would like. I do remember the salt-water pool and thought that if I went into it I would be sucked under water and into the ocean: a pool with no bottom I thought. I also remember being told and later noticing that the mid-century modern furniture had no wood; everything was aluminum to cut down on the weight. She was fast, in part, because she was light. I visited Philadelphia a couple of years back and took a walk down to the dock where she was moored. I was able to take some pictures through the tall chain-link fence. Tantalizingly close, so thanks to Abandoned Steve for the video and photos.
American Spirit, I forgot to add that our voyage took place in 1953.
My father played piano on her and made about 4 trips to Europe in the mid 60s. My mom and all 6 kids would drop him off at the ship in NY. We would spend about an hour on her then say goodbye, travel down to a spot on the river to watch her go by and drive the 2 hours back to Blackwood, NJ. It was a very majestic vessel. And my dad would always brag about how fast she was. I believe he said during sea trials they actually had someone water ski off the back to illustrate her nearly 50 mph! Her true top speed was classified because of her potential of being used as a troop carrier.
Great video, I think the coolest part was just hearing all the sounds the ship made. Not just in that one clip of the C deck but in other points in the video too, like the indoor swimming pool.
The Proper People Thanks! Yea although I didn't film a lot inside, that sound was constant. I had to record it b/c I though it was really cool to hear!
Di kk👍🏿
I love watching you guy so much.
Also the hissing Canadian Cobra chicken.
Oh hi Bryan and Michael.
Every time I go to Philadelphia I go to see her.... She's so beautiful, so gracious, so powerful, truly a work of art. I would love to see this beauty get restored and sail the seas again.
Well sadly these old ships aren’t very safe to ride anymore (they seem safe) but I would love to see it restored to its former glory
Shall we say $500-$750 million to restore? Dry dock for complete scraping and re painting AFTER a complete safety and engineering examination action and overhaul, complete new engines, replacing parts of hull and super structure and bulkheads, new furniture and complete interior decoration. It would be a grand dame of the seas but could it even be financially feasible?
My dad was a baker on the SS United States from 1964 until her last voyage in 1969. Before the SS United States, he worked for Cunard on the SS Independence and took some trips on the SS Constitution. He traveled the world and brought us back such wonderful gifts. Good times. :) He died in 2008 but he always said he loved the SS United States trips the best.
DWhytePA lovely
My grandfather was the captain of that ship until the end of the sixties
I travelled on this ship when I was 4 years old it was 1961 from Europe to New York and I remember the first class dining the stateroom and standing outside on the deck to scared to go to the rail. My father was in the Army and we were coming home from Germany. It brings tears to my mothers eyes and saddens me.
My grandfather was the captain of that ship until the end of the sixties
At 6:10 here you can meet the current owner.
Erich B a duck????
Hahahah im died..
Ahh
Ha ha!
Lol
Even in the state she's in, she is beautiful. Heartbreaking that she is just left to rust. Great video, thank you for sharing.
I wish we still had more ocean liners today. Instead we have crappy cruise ships that cost a fortune and are honestly kinda ugly in my opinion. Ocean liners are very beautiful ships and shouldn't go to waste like this.
The problem is that there isn't a market for ocean liners today. But I think it would be absolutely possible to build a nice looking ship that fits in the modern cruise market. What do you think about this: img15.deviantart.net/f645/i/2009/263/f/d/france_2_by_majaorca100.jpg
Cruise ships all look like floating whore houses!
They look like giant high-rise condominiums sitting atop ugly, poorly designed hulls, with amusement parks slapped on top of them. Absolute monstrosities.
They're known as floating hotels now giant tin cans
Airline travel killed off the ocean liners.
A little more information on the ship since I see a lot of comments about it never sailing again. That is correct, the ship will never sail again. They are not looking for a buyer to fix it up and sail it again. The screws (props) and all the shafts have been removed. The engine room is intact but too far gone. It would cost less money to rebuild a new ship to look like this one. What they are trying to do is find someone to take it and turn it into a riverfront hotel, casino, restaurant, mall, anything commercial. They had a few chances but nothing went through from what I read. The boat will not stay at this port if it is indeed sold to become a commercial venue. It is only here as a spot to keep it docked. This port is an active shipping port and the public would never be allowed on it. The ship still floats and does not take on a lot of water from what I am told. The interior furnishings were sold in the 80s. The owner of the ship at the time wanted money and that is what he did. In the 90s it went to Turkey to have all it walls removed due to asbestos.
+Abandoned Steve (Historical - Urbex) Give it to that idiot trump!!! He did so well in Atlantic city!!
+milwaukeegregg spoken like a true obama ass kisser.
+osogrande2 Obama could fit a few thousand Illegals in there.
+osogrande2 Obama ass kisser? I hate the pricki! The problem with trump is we are going to the same place on a different train. You like me are hoping for a change before there is no USA. The asshole living on our dime at 1600 penn will sell out this country for a loaf of bread. The difference is trump owns the bakery. He isn't going to work with anyone and get anything done. the guy is no Reagan, he is the polar opposite of what we have now with the same ego! We belly up to the bar with this other prick, the tab is owers. Just remember you can't get rid of them for at least 4 years,and then they may get another 4 like this prick.The pig in a pantsuit isn't the answer, she would lie in the confessional. I hate democrats, but donny is one in the guise of a savior!!
Please!! Thats your rational? I guess you punch a clock.
I'm currently reading the 6th and last volume of Frank O. Braynard's series about the S.S. Leviathan, another American liner. She was originally Germany's Vaterland, seized by the U.S. in 1917 and after the war had a massive re-conditioning led by William Gibbs, designer of the S.S. United States. He had no blueprints so had to get every space on the ship measured and it was converted from coal to oil-burning. As the passenger liner (again) Leviathan and with one of my relatives as Staff Chief there was an elaborate story of private and government ownership that eventually had the Leviathan laid up in 1934 and scrapped in 1938 when she should have been put in the Reserve Fleet. The "Big U" can sail to any port on earth without refueling and can be turned into a troop transport in 48 hours but I suppose that's impossible now and that the liner would be an easy target for today's missiles. The mix of government and private business seems to have kept both liners from more years of service. Too neither had adequate running mates.---Glad to see the propeller: William Gibbs wanted the best on his staff regardless of sex, religion or race. The propellers were designed by Elaine Kaplan who was Jewish when plenty of businesses would not have hired a woman or a Jew or both.--You and your viewers might like to read "S.S. United States--The Story of America' Greatest Ocean Liner" by William H. Miller, 1991. I believe that Mr. Miller also assemble and wrote "The Picture History of the S.S. United States" published in recent years by Dover Books. I'd like to also recommend "A Man and His Ship" (about Gibbs and the S.S.U.S.) by Stephen Ujifusa, 2013, and "S.S. United States--Red, White and Blue Riband Forever" by John Maxtone-Graham, 2015, All of these are great reading about our great liner.
I boarded the SS United States in Le Harvre, France on May 18, 1963, crossed the English Channel to Southhampton, England and then on to NYC. At that time we had the opportunity to fly back to NY but my parents chose the SS US and boy am I glad. It is a memory I'll not forget. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing what is left of the interior of the ship. I swam in the swimming pool and watched movies in the theatre and have pictures of us on the ship, at dinner, etc. Wish I had a Hundred Million or two to restore this maiden of the sea.
My grandfather was the captain of that ship until the end of the sixties
I remember watching her leave Southampton water in to the Solent from the Isle of Wight. Beautiful liner.
One of the greatest liners ever and hardly anyone knows about it
The Munsters cruised this ship to England and back to America in the movie Munsters Go Home. Little FYI...😊
I saw the movie when I was a kid I didn't know that.thanks.
Super video. My late father remembered when she sailed in to the Port of Southampton on her maiden voyage. She took the Blue Ribbon, for the fastest Trans-Atlantic crossing. She had been going so hard, that all the paint had been stripped from her bow!
Also, one steam tug Captain was hell-bent on beating her up Southampton Water that, according to dad, he was even burning his bed socks to get enough speed to beat her!
Glad to see the grand old lady is still in existence & afloat. I just hope the preservation group can get her back to her original glory.
My grandfather was the captain of that ship until the end of the sixties
My brother and I had a wonderful childhood. My dad was a Ships Chief Engineer and we got to visit so many beautiful liners and vessels. My favourite ship of the Orient Line's RMS "Oronsay". Loved that ship and loved travelling on her. I would love to visit this once beautiful ship ss "United States". Must put it on my bucket list.
My day was a musician on the Oronsay for a while .
My grandfather was the captain of that ship until the end of the sixties
I am amazed and how sound all the interior areas look. I think this ship could easily be restored to it's former glory and put back into service.
About as likely as the Arabs and Jews hugging one another and declaring peace in the middle east. It's going to become a giant pierside 7-11 in New Yawk
Even through all the damage, all the hardships, and all of the fighting over it. This ship is still beautiful and has a long life still ahead of her
It’s really sad that the blue ribbon holder is in a state like this.
Looking at the terrible state it's in, you wouldn't think it held the blue ribbon... I really hope someone does buy this ship to preserve it
Sailed on her to France in 1956. It was quite a ride, I remember she had a constant low vibration as she steamed along. Joan Crawford, the actress was on board and I got her autograph. I live near her and see her from time to time.
John Rocco Wow. ! Great little story.
You still see her, even though died in the late 70s? lol
Prayerfully, Rocco's just a prankster....Otherwise, might be a sad case of Alzheimer's.
I was on that same trip! Joan Crawford sat on my face while Bette Davis blew the barman. The chicken caccitore in the dining room was excellent.
I think "her" is the ship
This vessel is not in too bad of a shape. Lots of work needed but the hull integrity has not been compromised and it all looks like surface rust. Even the Pit (Engine Room/Boiler room) looks ok. I remember seeing this ship in 2008 while I was active duty in the U.S. Navy. and its a real beauty. I will love to see it back in good shape. I wish I lived closer to the coast... I would volunteer to help restore ships like this (even if it was just for pier show, as I imagine the propulsion must be missing key parts) since I have plenty of experience acquired from my years as an Machinist's Mate in the fleet.
Secret 66 och
Jorge Arroyo This ship is perfectly restorable! We just need to get up off our collective a$$e$ and make this vessel great again!
@@cornellgreen3692 This ship will be cut apart and melted down. It is stripped inside, just a useless rusting shell.
As a Mariner, and a Ship fanatic, they have let her go too long. Too much has been removed from this Grand Lady. I'm afraid She's doomed. With all my heart I wish that was not so.
+jisidorfisk I said the same thing...I live close to her...She's ready for the breakers...
You guys sound like Chumbucket from Mad Max the game.
This is not a video game. Run along, grown ups are talking.
Adults and teens can like games too. Currently, I am a teenager.
+jisidorfisk, I agree. She has been totally stripped. There is nothing left to restore. A huge endeavor and Millions of $$$$. I think she will go to the breakers. If there was anything left inside maybe, but she is nothing but a Hulk.
The ship that made the fastest TransAtlantic crossing, DOES NOT deserve this! Government, someone show some respect!
It's not about respect, it's about money... the estimated costs to restore the ship are between $700 million and a billion, not exactly pocket change
Sometimes you have to forget about the price and do what is best
Javier Escuella yes, and she is the pride of USA, its not like any ordinary old building which needs to be restored, its one of the most unique ocean liners ffs.
Teo LBZ agreed
Government show respect? BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA
We should have more ships like this, not some floating building.
In
Nicholas Tenges, I totally agree. All the old ocean liners had such beautiful lines, none more beautiful than the SS United States.
You're damn right
I just realized the Titanic II is going to be the only ship that still sails that looks like a 20th century ship
@Girl Roblox Queen Mary 2 is a beautiful ship no doubt
This ship needs to be restored fully and parked next to the Queen Mary! It's our history!
Or blow it up loo
Leo Peridot Okay maybe don’t scrap a massive piece of United States history. I don’t think you know what this ship is.
Leo Peridot I don’t think you know the history of this ship at all-
@Leo Peridot "and not a very good one" do you know that it still holds the record for the fastest ocean crossings that havent been beaten to this day
We scap it and rebuild it
As a youngster in the late 1950's, I visited and toured this ship prior to its departure for Europe when my German grandfather returned to his homeland after 50 years in the USA. Amazing and beautiful ship. So sad to see it today.
love the knife like bow ..beautiful ship!!
I was in the U.S. Navy back in the 1950s and watched this beautiful ship as she docked in Bremerhaven, Germany, one of her regular ports of call.
I'm a German/American. This is the ship that brought me to the United States in the late 50's. From Brevahaven Germany 🇩🇪 to New York U.S.A 🇺🇸
Great video, especially the dissolve at 1:02 from historic to current. Just to restate, I was on the deck of the RMS Queen Elizabeth in 1956 in New York harbor sailing for Southampton, UK and remember passing the SS United States in her mooring with everyone on deck marveling at her size and modern design; after all, the QE was already 19 years old although she'd been refitted after WWII. Amazing that you were able to still inspect a 63-year-old ocean liner- most are scrapped at only half that age. Shame though that her entire interior was ripped out down to her skeleton. Interesting also that Cunard's new Queen Mary II is capable of 29.3 knots, but still ambles across the Atlantic in 7 days.
Thank you for posting this. I never sailed on her but walked her decks twice during bon voyage parties for my grands parents when they sailed her to Germany. They also sailed her sister ship, the SS America. They were both beautiful but the Big U was special.
The pinnacle of transatlantic passenger ship service. She’s about 10 years younger than the SS America, not a ‘sister’. I won’t fall into the trap of saying never, but the demand for point-to-point travel is a sweet spot of speed, comfort and COST; little or no demand for transportation from the U.S to England that takes five days and costs considerably more than a couple hundred dollars. Too bad, a relatively brief productive life for arguably the best transatlantic liner.
It was clearly a beautiful ship but, sadly, the interiors have all been stripped. So it's nothing more than a shell. What is really left to save?
During most refits and upgrades ships are torn down to this point as well. Carriers go through this every 25 years.
All the history and value was in the original fitout ... now gone.
As the saying goes. "One man's trash is another man's treasure."
History. History is what's left to save. #SOSSUS
@@Radio49point7FM - are you referring to Indian ship breaker shipyard workers?
Why does America try to preserve a 200 year old hat and not a ship
Abraham Lincolns hat and this masterpiece
Obviously, because preserving a hat takes a lot less work! 😀
REMEMBER, PRIVATELY OWNED, NOT GOVERNMENT OWNED
@@carlwilliams6977 Funny, sad, and true!
It all revolves around money. It cost millions of dollars a year just for it to sit there. On top of that it would take 30-40mil to restore/refurbish so thats why.
It is one of a handful of "golden-era" ocean liners left; and it is deserving of restoration. Long -overdue. Can't wait to see it restored to its former glory?!
I totally agree with you
Lets hope!
Nothing would be original. She has been stripped, and corrosion has already taken over. It would be cheaper at this point, to build a replica. Time and neglect, has doomed her.
A magnificent & historical ship like this should be restored to its glory days & put back in service for younger generations to see & appreciate.
I drove past this ship when I visited Philly in 2007, it was a sight to behold even in this condition. I just wonder if it ever will be possible to save it from being scrapped
It’s guaranteed to not be scrapped.
im a fan of the eagles nfl team i have a tattoo of their logo on my neck she more than deserves to get some tlc tender lovin care if i had millions of dollars i would restore her lol im from tacoma washington my favorite baseball team is the seattle mariners GO MARINERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! it would be such a dream come true
i also have the seattle mariners logos tattoos
I know - it has a lot of presence when are within view of it - you can’t miss it, it really stands out.
It is hard to take in the size. You have to be at a distance to take it all in. I fear it will just sit there and for until it capsizes.
I find it terribly sad that such a great country can let such a great and historic ship, part of the USAs heritage, fall into such disrepair.
It truly is sad that the U.S. has been allowed to fall into disrepair. I hope it can be saved and returned to its former glory. It will take a great amount of care and refurbishing. What a tremendous shame it would be to watch Her sink.
Shouldn't surprise you. Hell, the whole country is in disrepair, take a look around you Alan Ingram, the predators who run this country have fed off of it for over a hundred yrs and now are abondoning ship, in more ways than one!
This ship should be cut for scrap without delay!
SteamLocoScrapper
Shut up troll
Wow, a Section 8 cruise ship!
Some Rusteze, a new paint job, and a new interior, good as new!
you dont know whats going on below the waer line
We left Bremerhaven Germany on the USS General Patch four days before the USS United States which was docked next to us left in June 1959. It passed us half way across the Atlantic and was in New York when we arrived. What a beautiful ship it was.
it doesn't look to bad. Sand blast it and some fresh paint on the outside, and it looks good as new.
The inside is already stripped down to the bare metal, so that saves alot of money to dispose the old crap, and man hours,
so a new interior could be fitted right away, and that could be a hotel, nightclub, theatre, cinema, restaurant, whatever.
And as a operational ship, but somewere permanent docked in a harbour that attracks alot of tourist and locals.
+3DPeter
About as luxurious as an old warship. The entire interior was gutted.
*****
According to CNBC, Queen Mary 2 is the world's fastest.
www.cnbc.com/2014/05/16/worlds-fastest-cruise-liner-turns-10.html
+Scooter George QM2 is the fastest ocean liner to sail TODAY (he said that in the video) Well, I think she also is the only one.
Regardless, the only thing the SS United States has going for her is speed. The reason for the speed is the government wanted her fast enough to be used as a fast transport if need be. The finest trans Atlantic liners were known for their luxury as well as their speed. And if tax dollars are needed to restore this ship, well...no.
She's more than fast. She's a result of advanced engineering of that time and she still exists. You can't save SS France, SS America, RMS Mauretania, RMS Queen Elizabeth etc. anymore. They are all gone, luxury or not, but you can still save this ship
I was 8 and on the maiden voyage
Brings back so many great memory's such a shame it's going to waste
I walked up the stairs an the beginning I don't know how many times
Duff Green shut up
Svsca Hey, no need to be rude
Svsca what‘s wrong with you?
rly nis I think he meant it in a good way not a mean way. Like oh no way! Or holy crap what!?!. He might be shocked.
Lady Lavigne no he still is 8 he’s lying to yall
I saw my Uncle, Aunt and cousin off on a voyage on this amazing ship in it's prime. It makes the bloated cruisers of the 21st century look like restaurant doggie bags.
I remember going on board this ship in the 50's while it was docked in New York City. My sisters and I went with my aunt from Bloomfield, NJ. We lived in Charlotte, NC and were visiting her. It was so grand and everything was so neat and shinny. I know there are a lot of people who think she should be restored and that sounds good but I could not imagine what that would cost. I know it would be hundreds or even thousands of times the money it cost to build it. In the 50's, it was "THE" ship. I retired off the USS Forrestal CVA-59 (an aircraft carrier) in 1979. The Forrestal was built about the same time as the SS United States but the Forrestal is no longer with us. I think it was used as scrap metal. Ships just don't last forever.
My grandfather was a sailor on that ship until the end of the sixties
@@mohammedjamal8439 I was actually stationed aboard the USS Forrestal two times. The first in 1964 when it was home ported in Norfolk, VA and the second time when it was home ported in Jacksonville, FL in 1977 and retired from the Navy in 1979. I was the line division chief at that time. Working on the flight deck was thrilling to say the least.
truly fantastic! reminds me of a ghost ship :)
dam i wanna come explore here hmm. u got the connections ! lol
Hello famous youtuber lol
Hello famous youtuber lol
You can see by her lines and proportions that she could pass the Atlantic in (almost) any weather 💪🏻 she’s a strong ship the s/s United States
This was great! Back when I used to cross the Walt Whitman Bridge into Philly I would see this boat but I never knew the story behind it. One time I even drove down columbus ave. to get a better look. I just could not believe how big it was right up close. I hope one day they are able to restore the boat to its former glory. Even if it's docked like the Mushulo and turned into a tourist attraction with a restaurant and maybe even guest rooms then it would bring jobs and money into that area. I would imagine that the cost to restore the ship and make it a place where people would come to dine and stay would be prohibitive.
I am glad that you took the time and effort to go there and show us what it's like and give us a little history. I don't want to sound like I'm complaining but it would be really cool to see some pictures of what it was like originally contrasting the pictures of today. You have earned a like and a sub for this great piece that has quenched my curiosity of this ship.
I sailed on this ship to Europe in 1963 when I was nine years old. This is the first time I've seen it since. :'(
What an experience.
It'll need some work, but I have faith somebody will restore this lovely artifact of history.
You were 64 years old when you posted this
My grandfather was the captain of that ship until the end of the sixties
@@mohammedjamal8439 😀How cool!!
0:55 to 1:15 gives me the chills. Very nicely done!
+Max Power Thank you
How could anyone dislike this? This video is amazing!
People on youtube like to dislike things b/c nobody likes them!
I agree. The other thing too is how can anyone neglect this historic American artifact like this??!!
It's the troublesome 3%. The nutters of society who consistently dislike everything that's good in life. Check out all good videos and stories - always 3% are pissed off by giving a thumbs down. Why!
Saw her back in 1999 in Philly when I was a truck driver, and made a delivery down the street I brought from L.A. I remember her from my childhood days in the 50's. Glad to see she will be refurbished and put to good use in NYC. She deserves it.
I was on this ship in 1969 with my family coming back from Germany...back to the US ...best time of my life...food was great. Sure wish they could refurbish it !
My grandfather was the captain of that ship until the end of the sixties
I Love this Ship. As a child ,I was lucky enough to have sailed to Europe from New York on this beautiful Ship. The fastest ship of its time. 🌎
of all time, actually. 46 knots in trials!
@@ct1762 thank you for info. 🏴☠️
@@johnkirby4290 you bet. it was mostly aluminum to keep the weight down. the age old trick of low weight and high power. That's what aircraft carrier engines with 2x less weight will do!
My grandfather was a sailor on that ship until the end of the sixties
I've always loved ships and shipwrecks. Steve if you could, would you explore more more Abandoned Ships and/or Shipwrecks (that are visible, above, or out of the water)?
Chance Richter Sure if I could find some. There is one off the coast of cape may nj but not much is left of it
Ya, the SS Atlantis, a ship made of concrete
yea it pretty much gone.
Abandoned Steve there is another concrete ship you could go too called the Palo Alto
where abouts
I sailed on the S.S. United States in 1957, coming from Le Havre to New York. My Dad had been stationed in Italy and then Germany and that's how you crossed the Atlantic back then, as there were no trans-Atlantic flights. We sailed into Naples, Italy on board the S.S. Constitution, having gone through Hurricane Hazel at full force for 3 days. I feel privileged to have crossed the Atlantic twice by those majestic ocean liners.
My grandfather was the captain of that ship until the end of the sixties
@@mohammedjamal8439 Was he captain as early as 1957? If so, he was captain during my voyage back to America. What was his name?
That goose was pissed. Maybe he’s the ship captain’s reincarnation
11TehDude
Or he’s protecting its nest
I agree maybe he’s the captain and the ship is still in service but because he’s a bird the ship looks broken but at night he drives the ship
A goose can/will kick your ass. Got my arse handed to me by one when I was a teenager. Still pissed about it. F'n geese. Hate 'em. LOL!
This goose didn't get the memo that she's Canadian and is supposed to be overly nice and accommodating.
Haha, holy crap - the thing turned into a complete tip! That's going to be one big renovation
lets hope it dont tip!'
4:04 That ain't the ship making that noise, that's South Philly Gang wars. 😂🤣
hahaha they have their own hells kitchen eh?
I’m glad it was you Steve one of my favorite You Tubers that did this video I’m 55 years old and since i was a child the SS United States has been my favorite vessel ! When i reached adulthood. I was able to peruse my love for boating and nautical dreams by owning almost 20 different vessels and exploring the Carribean. On one as well as many other adventures ive stood on the sidewalk by that very Ship stating at her for hours myself wondering what her condition was inside and on the decks thanks for the video and pictures it still breaks my heart to see such a magnificent piece of history and engineering just decaying before our eyes although i did have my children. With me to show why i thought the ship was so. Pretty in boating its all about what we call the lines of a vessel the overall shape that gives a boat or ship its silhouette in the water. That makes her pleasing to the eyes ! I fell in love with the United States Ship because a Great Uncle of mine built a model of her when he was a kid and it was still on display at his parents home when i was a kid ! Luckily for myself my parents relocated our family to Florida where i had plenty of oppurtunity to get involved with water sports and boating i even bought my first boat Before a car !
Seeing the hull I envisioned what the" TITANIC would look like if she were above water. BOY they really stepped her well inside. I remember her well as a preteen when we would drive on the West Side Highway and see her brother on the Hudson. Many decades later,leaving Phili my eyes couldn't believe what they saw while on the highway. I knew it was her by her unmistakable smoke funnels.
IF I hit the Mega I would donate a mill just for the exterior on a paint job and see how much could be painted for that amount.
Thanks for the video and closeups. It satisfied my curiosity
Peter Mendoza they stripped her out to prepare for the overhaul all the fittings are in storage and museums.
Peter Mendoza that’s ship is over 107 feet longer than titanic and just a bit taller and wider
To this day, the SS United States is still the holder of the Blue Riband, designating her as the fastest of all Ocean Liners ever to have been in existence.
+RKWWWW The Blue Riband record came in the bargain. The ship was built in association with the navy to be converted into a fast troup transport ship if needed. The SS US was equipped with aircraft carrier engines with more than 240 000 hp, the earlier Blue Riband holders SS Normandie and RMS Queen Mary had both "only" 160 000 hp each. 1/3 more power in combination with 1/3 less weight made her invincible.
Nope unfortunately Sir Richard Branson took the Ribbon from her with a specially designed speed boat that was probably less than 60 ft long compared to a 990 ft cruise ship that took waves like they weren't even there.I was onboard one day and she broke her lines and floated away from the dock and I didn't know for over 3 hrs until I opened the hatch to see why the next guard wasn't there to relieve me lol. American ship building at it's finest and not a single computer to aid in design. True piece of history
loved the pics and music at the end; made me think of the hotel in 'The Shining'
I'm a Brit, but it's sad to think a ship named after your country is left to rot😕
Simon Mark Rogers If we would get up off our collective a$$e$ and get serious about the restoration, it would become great again.
Wow thank you for the effort and time you've put into this vid, and a thank you to the good folks who let you and us have a look around.
I remember as a child in the 1960s having several small metal models of famous ships. My favourite was actually the SS United States because I liked the shape and the colour scheme of the funnels. I liked the Canberra too.
Regards from The UK
My grandfather was a sailor on that ship until the end of the sixties
@@mohammedjamal8439 That must have been great for your grandfather .. the SS United States was certainly one of the nicest looking ships on the sea .. far better looking that some of the modern day cruise ships.
Sad to see! Sailed on this ship when I was a child, with my mother. We went to England to meet my Dad who was in the Air Force.
What was it like?
Most iconic ship ever
Wonderful HD footage. Feels like I'm there. Thank you for sharing your visit.
She would be a perfect setting for "GHOST SHIP II".
This ship was not designed for a simple Caribbean cruise ship. That is not what it was built for. Many American wealthy and movie stars of it's day rode on her. It's like the QM-1 OE-1 and the Normandy. These were called "Ocean Liners" because they were built to cross the Atlantic Ocean and withstand the gigantic rogue waves that will swamp any of these new Carrabin tall cruise ships. When the first time the SS United States sailed the Atlantic to England it was faster than the "Cunard's Queen Ocean crossing liners" and won the title and trophy. It deserves better especially because there would be no way an Ocean Liner this large could afford to be built today. It does not need engines. Just a good sand blasting down to the bare metal and repainted. Then a new interior set as a Trophy near the Statue of Liberty as a large Hotel and repainted it's original colors with the wording the "SS United States" back on both sides of the bow. The U. S. already has the original British Cunard's old Queen Mary in Long Beech California. It is now called the Hotel Queen Mary. The least some American Billionaire could get up and going for this still proud Ocean Liner.
Just take example of the SS Rotterdam in Holland. This ship was bought by the Dutch govenment, restored to her original condition and the city of Rotterdam gave her a mooring place for free, where she's now a museum/hotel ship. They can't even give the SS US a free docking space. And at first I would make the exterior look sound, just sandblast and paint her. The interior could wait.
I was on this ship as a child and me and my family came from England to the usa. i remember the statue of liberty as my first memory coming here. My parents allways had us dressed up nice and professional allways. And my dad was proud to say this ship was faster than the QE. If not for this ship i would not be here now. It saddens me to see this video. I wish she was laid to rest or restored. It should be embarrassing for all of us to see her in this shape.
John, Thank You. I feel the same way. I wonder if The Donald has a thought about this.
The Donald doesn't think!
There built to sail the heavy going Atlantic and Pacific seas.
higher first decks, stronger hull design to withstand some of the worst storms.
they carry less passengers as they devote more of there height to hull than cabins.
but theres not many seas that they cannot sail.
Wonderful piece of engineering.
I hope she will be saved.
They consider it lost as it broke from a tow line to become a 5 star hotel and spilt in half
I sailed on the big ship twice, once in 1959 to Germany (my dad was in the Army) and then the voyage back home in 1962. On the latter trip I recall seeing the Manchurian candidate movie with Frank Sinatra. I was 12 years old and my parents allowed me to wander around the ship. The indoor pool was very small but functional.
My grandfather was the captain of that ship until the end of the sixties
On the one hand, so sad to see such a great ship in its' present condition, while on the other, great to see her still afloat! I joined the British merchant marine as a young radio officer in 1960 and throughout that decade came across many great liners plying their trade across the North Atlantic. I remember seeing the beautiful lines of the 'US', on a number of occasions, just fleeting glimpses of her as she appeared out of the gloom, passing by like a mercurial phantom before being quickly shrouded by the ever present spume and spray. A magnificent ship, never used to her full potential, unfortunately. Political interference, dare I say? However, she remains up there with the best of them - earning her right to the Blue Riband!
+William Rance Beautifully put. She was almost like the Concorde of ocean liners, and could do 45 knots, though that made her also a gas guzzler, if I have my facts straight.
During the mid 80s I was lucky enough to go on a cruise on the Royal Princess, and though I had a balcony cabin (the "Aloha" deck) I spent about as much time topside as I could, especially at night, yet never saw another passenger ship except in port because there were so much fewer of them then, and still wonder what I would have been like to see one pass, as many on cargo ships saw us pass. When it was overcast at night we seemed to be riding in our own bubble of light, the clouds above us and the sea for some distance softly reflecting the many lights of the ship.
One night I struck up a conversation about astronomy with the first mate (or whatever the next in line from Captain is called) and had a private tour of the bridge, which we had all to ourselves, and was surprisingly spacious and simple in layout, with a great big old flat-screened CRT on which the radar image was laid out like a map. The fastest we went was over a glassy stretch in the Pacific north toward Acapulco, at 22 knots. During evening twilight I put the full moon, which was near the horizon, into the field of my binoculars while bracing them against the railing, and saw that we were pitching and/or yawing by less than half a degree, very slowly. We seemed to be what sat still, while the water planet slid by.
Peace out.
+James Roach Hi, James. First Mate it is! Though on a cruise ship they probably give the professional title of Chief Officer, or First Officer, perhaps. A little up market to please the passengers. A ship's navigation bridge is a magical place to be on a star-lit night. It is a place for a man to gaze upon the stars, reflect upon his own place within the heavens. It strips away the stresses, and all that is ill in human terms. I have sailed upon the major oceans of the world, apart from Antartica. I have walked upon every continent, except Antartica. I have sailed upon eighty odd ships within my twenty-three years sailing as a merchant mariner, on all kinds of ships. But, my lasting memories will be of those beautiful great liners, the 'United States', the British Cunard 'Queens' and the their French sisters' as they gracefully passed us by in all their majesty and superior turn of speed - what a privilege to see.
lol that duck looked PISSED.
***** yea just a little. We passed the mother goose and the father flew right in and gave us crap. Guess they own the ship huh :)
She was so beautiful♡♡
Hopefully justice will come to this ship because she doesnt deserve to be left, abandoned like this. She is HISTORY, and at least make a museum of it😖
My grandfather was the captain of that ship until the end of the sixties
I sailed her from NYC to Le Havre in 1952. Still have a picture of myself at the pool with a USS US life ring around my shoulders. It was my third of seven major ocean voyages. Enjoyed all of it. Thank you tax payers.
"Don't worry captain we'll buff out those scratches"
-Spongebob Squarepants
I don't know much about ships but they seem insanely expensive for such a short lifespan
Ask anyone who owns a boat and they can confirm this for you.
your right on the money
Sailed on this great vessel from Germany to NY in 1957.
What was it like?
@@FoxStarLine Fantastic.....but it was over too quick.
@@TheJsalling lucky !!!!
That is a amazing ship!! I cant imagine the money to upkeep and maintenance on a ship like that....but she's so classy!!! I hope they did move her and use her for something amazing again!!
I watched a video about this ship and it’s pretty sad. It was passed from owner to owner to owner and had plans for so many different ideas from repurposing it, to turning it into a docked hotel. And nobody ever was able to fulfill those plans. Instead it sits where it is, gutted and all those memories are held with it. Some even thought to scrap it for the metal. Would be such a shame. I love ships the same way my dad loved planes. I especially love old ships. I find them so interesting. I’d love to see this ship finally have another destiny and be used for something cool and important rather then be scrapped or purposely sunk for an artificial reef.
It’s just such a shame that it’s sitting there in the dock, rotting away and seeing it’s interior so bare and lifeless. No lights, no real homelike walls or furnishings.....so empty. It’s saddening to think as it’s sits now. It was one a beautiful ship and has lots of history. I believe President Clinton even was on this ship when he was young. And I’ve seen many comments about people who’ve been on the SS US as a child. It’s really interesting but also saddening to see. I hope it sees a good and useful future at some point soon.
I would rather see it sank as a artificial reef than be scrapped, imagine how cool it would be to dive the ss United States
@@Doveproductions73 you're just mad because you were the only ship in your class to be scrapped and not sunk, shut up Olympic xD
Falconeer I meant I would rather not see it scrapped, I would much rather see it sank as a artificial reef that way it could live on as a reef
@@Doveproductions73 it was a joke, because ur name is RMS Olympic and that was the only Olympic-class ship that got scrapped, while Titanic and Brittanic both sunk, therefore the joke that you were jealous for being scrapped and not to as you say "live on as a reef". xD
Falconeer I would have much rather lived on as a reef
seeing this crumbling and decaying ship is a good example of what has happened to the country of the same name in the last 30 years
garvinhooper , good way to put it. I would personally like to see the second American Revolution start and stop all the corrupted B.S. Overthrow and replace this corrupted government, if that's what you call it, that has screwed and failed the real American Constitutional Patriotic people like me time and time again. Lets then fix the country, and then fix this beautiful ship. I remember when she was in Norfolk, Virginia, near the Norfolk Naval base. I got to tour the ship before they degutted her. She still had her luxurious carpeting and fixtures. Outdated but beautiful. One of my friends worked where she was docked back then and he took me and a few friends to check her out . We were in the Navy at the time. She was worth seeing.
ie symptomatic
Thats why we are making America great again!
This ship was a strategic weapon of the United States. It's hidden purpose is to transport an infantry division to Europe in 3 days in case of war. It holds the record of fastest ship in the world at only 2/3 throttle. It's secret top speed was actually 50 mph or 44 knots. It would have been a very difficult target for a submarine. It could leave an Iowa class BB on the far horizon.
This is one of the few videos that has appropriate accompanying music...very well done. The view of the bow @ 10:36 is startling, it's like a knife!
Would have been great to be able to see before and after pictures both inside and out.
Despite its condition, the ship is an amazing site from interstate 95.
From Wikipidia....
"On February 4, 2016, Crystal Cruises announced that it had signed a purchase option for the SS United States. Crystal would cover docking costs in Philadelphia for nine months while conducting a feasibility study on returning the ship to service as a cruise ship based in New York City. It was announced on April 9, 2016 that 600 artifacts from the SS United States would be returned to the ship from the Mariners' Museum, and other donors.
The plan was formally dropped on August 5, 2016, citing too many technical and commercial challenges. Crystal Cruises then made a donation of $350,000 to help with preservation through the end of the year."
350k is a drop in the bucket. Waste of money, time, and effort. Priorities are backwards as usual.
Very cool. I’m sure it was beautiful in its day. Glad they are restoring it and not scrapping it😊
this would be cool to have as a floating hotel refurbished interior or even just using it as a classic special cruise ship you know old time themed idk theres a lot they could do with this its a shame to let it rot away tho its 2019 and probably gone by now.
Did you see what the OP commented?
I don't think it would ever make the money back it had cost to refit the ship and make it ready for service again, by the time the next refit came up the owners would most definitely still be in the negative from the first restoration and refit.
MY FAMILY AND I WERE ON THIS SHIP FROM NEW YORK TO FRANCE AND THEN BACK FROM FRANCE TO NEW YORK IN 1963. WE WENT THREW HURRICANE FAITH IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ATLANTIC. IT WAS SCARY BUT WE MADE IT BACK TO NEW YOORK IN ONE PIECE. LOT OF GREAT MEMORIES ON THAT SHIP
+Bob Michetti very cool! Thanks for sharing that
+Bob Michetti Perhaps you mean Hurricane Edith? Or perhaps you sailed in 66
correct it was 1966 thanks for info
Thanks for the video. I've known about the SS United States, but didn't know what happened to it. I feel it reflects what the USA itself has become! Best to scrap it. Time to start over & not make the same mistakes as in the first place.
It will never sail again & would probably be too costly to turn into a hotel or shopping area.
+Ethercruiser1 " Best to scrap it. Time to start over & not make the same mistakes as in the first place.
It will never sail again & would probably be too costly to turn into a hotel or shopping area." Yea but what about the ship?
+Ethercruiser1 Best to keep your Neanderthal, retrograde, ideas to yourself.
+Ethercruiser1 You are truly a bone cheese. Sounds like maybe you should leave the USA. Love it or leave it. We should scrap you.
What did he say that is so wrong? Even if it's sold as a floating venue of some kind that attempt will cost so much money it would not be worth the investment. The reality is, and I say this with regret, it's fate is recycled scrap otherwise it will stay here and rot even more. Face it they left it too long.
Great photos! She needs a lot of love but she's still a stunning ship. Her two funnels are gorgeous.