Picture History of the SS United States

After my initial browsing through the 228 pages of this publication (115 pages of subject matter) I could not help but wonder if the United States was camera shy. I ordered this title sight-unseen, with the belief that it would be rich in detailed photographs to aid the research, and modeling, of my 1:600 Revell kit. Unfortunately, towards this end this book falls somewhat short.

The Picture History Of The SS United States is a typical William Miller offering ~ slick, glossy, all b/w photographs with detailed accompanying text. Organized into seven chapters, only two (chapters 5 and 6) actually cover her design, construction and service, for a total of 55 pages. The final chapter chronicles her lay-up, decline and the numerous failed schemes for rejuvenation. Surprisingly, and somewhat of a disappointment, the first four chapters, for a total of 52 pages, deals with other American flagged vessels, including the America. With the America considered to be the United State’s prototype, a chapter devoted to her has become a prerequisite in any publication devoted to the ‘Big U’. However, in my opinion, these other ships are more than adequately covered in one of Miller’s previous publications, The Picture History of American Passenger Ships. Thus, their inclusion here amounts to extensive (and unnecessary) filler. I can not imagine photos of the United States being that rare, and if filler was needed a set of deck plans would have been preferable, if only to guide readers in the discussion of her internal class divisions, and appointments. (It has always been my opinion that a publication devoted to a single ship should feature deck plans ~ if only authors would take note!)

With this being said, the photographs within the two chapters that cover her service life, for the most part, are well chosen (save for the obligatory, yet unnecessary, two pages of celebrity passengers). Most I have seen in other publications, however there are several I have not, including one evocative double-page spread of the United States during her sea trials (this also graces the cover). This one shot alone will prove valuable to the modeler who wishes to super-detail the Revell kit offering. Other photographs, especially those of her upper-works under construction before the addition of davits and lifeboats, will be useful as well.

Overall, as a tribute to this great liner, this book is a worthy addition to any nautical library. However, as a modeling reference, it could have provided much more considering the pages devoted to other ships having little, or no (save for the America) direct blood-line to United States. In spite of its ‘modeling limitations’, its affordable price ($16.95 US / $28.95 Canadian, at the time of writing), it is money well spent and is a recommended purchase if your primary interest is ocean liners, and in particular, the magnificent  S.S. United States.

This publication, along with other nautical titles by William Miller, is available on-line from www.nauticalmind.com.