The fastest ocean liner to cross the Atlantic faces eviction from a pier

In 1952, the SS United States won the famed Blue Riband, the prize given to the fastest ship to cross the Atlantic. On the record-setting maiden voyage, the ship went so fast some of the paint on the hull was sheared off by the sea. (Courtesy SS United States Conservancy)

The fastest ocean liner to ever cross the Atlantic — in both directions — has been languishing at a pier in south Philadelphia for more than twenty-five years. However, the days of the rusting SS United States calling at Pier 82 in the City of Brotherly Love are likely numbered. The 990 ft. ship that's bigger than the Titanic is facing eviction.

On her maiden voyage in 1952, the SS United States won the coveted Blue Riband from Great Britain. What came to be called "America's Flagship" crossed the Atlantic in 3 days, 10 hours, and 40 minutes — besting the time set by the RMS Queen Mary by 10 hours. To this day, the SS United States holds the record.