She was the largest ocean liner constructed in the US and the fastest liner to cross the Atlantic in either direction. Even still, the SS United States retains the Blue Riband, given to the passenger liner crossing the Atlantic with the highest record speed.
The ship was built in 1952, at a cost of $78 million, for the United States Line with the intent to capture the trans-Atlantic speed record. It was in service until 1969 and now rests docked at Pier 82 on the Delaware River in Philadelphia. She could easily be converted into a troopship or a hospital ship if needed, and was built with no wood framing to enhance fire resistance. Her structure was the largest use of aluminum in any singular construction project, and was built to just barely squeeze through the Panama Canal. Oh, and her record speed was New York Harbor to Bishop Rock in 3 days, 10 hours, and 40 minutes, at an average speed of 35.59 kn (40.96 mph).
It’s Tuesday, July 3
The Homeplace at Land Between the Lakes offers an Independence Day celebration tomorrow afternoon from 1 to 4. George McGee will portray the popular statesman Henry Clay, and there will be old-time music, games, and watermelon. Find details at lbl.org.
Betty Liles will teach a Basic Drawing Class at the Hopkinsville Art Guild on Saturday mornings in July from 9 to noon. Drawing exercises will include drawing from life and learning how to measure for accuracy and proportion. Beginner and advanced students are welcome. Call (270) 885-7941 to register.
The third session of Red Cross Swim Lessons will be held next week at the Murray Calloway County City Park Pool. The cost for the week-long session is $60. Different levels of instruction will be offered for ages six months through adults. To learn more or to register, call (270) 753-1421.
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