The state-of-the-art ocean liner SS United States broke the transatlantic speed record for passenger ships on her maiden voyage in July of 1952, completing the ocean crossing in 3 days, 10 hours, 40 minutes at an average speed of 35.59 knots (65.91 km/h; 40.96 mph). It was all downhill from there, though the liner enjoyed an exemplary service career before being withdrawn from service in 1969.

In 1996 the ship was towed from Norfolk, Virginia to Pier 84 in South Philadelphia where it rests to this day, unloved and unwanted, her formerly bright contrasting colors inexorably fading and peeling. If there was ever an ideal poster child for the current state of the passenger liner industry, it’s the SS United States. Kudos to Flickr user Liz Kallikak for the above evocative, warts & all image of the unloved and unwanted liner.