Transatlantic Trailblazers: Charting a forward course

The story of the SS United States is the story of America. It is the story of the nation’s triumphant emergence from World War II and its ascension as a global superpower. It’s also a story of evolving gender roles, from the wartime industrial mobilization to postwar consumerism and the advent of Mid-Century Modern art and design. 

Breaking the transatlantic speed record on her maiden voyage and establishing herself as the fastest ship in the world – a record she holds to this day – enshrined the SS United States and America’s place in the postwar world order. 

The ship was considered a symbol of national pride and a technological marvel: a monument in her own right. Built entirely on American soil, the SS United States was seen by the public as the embodiment of American ingenuity, perseverance, and pride. While today her paint may be faded, and she may be patiently awaiting her rebirth, she remains an important avenue for a greater understanding of our nation’s history.

She is a ship of many “firsts” and those accomplishments should be recognized and celebrated. Perhaps less well known are the “firsts”that were associated with the SS United States’ design and construction, which were the work of inspirational women like Elaine Kaplan, Hildreth Meière, Mira Jedwabnik and more, whose work began before she ever went to sea. Although large numbers of engineers, designers, and workers were present on the SS United States’ sea trials and successful delivery cruise to New York, none of the women were allowed onboard as it was considered bad luck for any woman to sail on a ship before its official commissioning. 

From propeller design to creating art with newly developed materials, women left their mark on the fastest and most modern ocean liner ever built. It is not too grand to state that the aspects of SS United States that passengers remember most, the speed, comfort, and art, were often created, or organized, by women.

To her passengers, she was the pinnacle of art and design. To her crew, she was a technological marvel. To 21st century Americans, she should remain a beacon of American resilience. She has stood the test of time thanks to the fortitude and hard work of many Transatlantic Trailblazers.