Advertising the United States:

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“Popular Mechanics Magazine Cover,” Commissioned by Popular Mechanics  December 1952, Popular Mechanics Magazine 

Image courtesy of Paul Stipkovich

In 1952, Popular Mechanics commissioned Model Engineer of Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Co., Robert G. C. Lee, for plans of a model of the SS United States. These plans were drafted into a series of articles that discussed, in detail, the modeling of the ship so that families across the nation could participate. Advertised as the perfect Christmas project for any “Father-Son” team to “launch,” a sentiment emphasized by the eager young boy whose shirt reflects the colors of United States’ funnels.This family scene depicted the ship as a beacon of post-war technological mastery that could install awe across generations.

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