SS Washington Archival Collection

Vintage Color Postcard of the SS Washington of the United States Lines. The ship is in Regular Service to and From New York, Ireland, England, France, and Germany. The SS Washington and Her Sister Ship, the Mighty SS Manhattan, are the Largest and Fastest Liners Ever Built in America. nd circa 1932. GGA Image ID # 1681540bc1

Content Links

• Washington (1933) United States Lines Ship's History (Brief)
• Passenger Lists
• Menus
• Brochures
• Sailing Schedules
• Route Maps, Track Charts, Abstract of Logs
• Guides
• Programs
• Back Cover Images
• Officers Sleeve Stripes
• Photographs
• Excerpts from Information for Passengers
• Books Referencing the SS Washington
• Introducing The New SS Washington - 1933

Washington (1933) United States Lines

Built by New York Shipbuilding Corp., Camden, N. J. Tonnage: 24,289. Dimensions: 668' x 86' (705' o.l.). Propulsion: Twin- screw, 21 knots. Steam turbines. Masts and Funnels: Two masts and two funnels. Launched, August 20, 1932. Maiden voyage: New York-Plymouth-Hamburg, May 10, 1933. Passengers: 500 cabin, 500 tourist, 200 third. War Service: Employed as a troopship during World War II, transporting thousands of American soldiers overseas. Post-War Service: Resumed trans-Atlantic service in February 1948. In her post-war service accommodation was provided for 1,100 passengers in a single class. This former luxury liner was returned to the United States Government service in October 1951. Subsequently laid up in the reserved fleet in 1953. Fate: Scrapped at Kearny, New Jersey in 1965. Sister ship: Manhattan.

Passenger Lists

Menus

Brochures

Sailing Schedules

Sailing Schedule, Hamburg-Le Havre-Southampton-Cobh-New York, From 21 October 1936 to 30 September 1937. Ships Included the Manhattan, President Harding, President Roosevelt, and Washington. SS Manhattan Passenger List, 21 October 1921. GGA Image ID # 1ea765afac

Sailing Schedule, New York-Cobh-Plymouth-Le Havre-Hamburg, From 14 October 1936 to 14 October 1937. Ships Included the Manhattan, President Harding, President Roosevelt, and Washington. SS Manhattan Passenger List, 21 October 1921. GGA Image ID # 1ea777d833

Sailing Schedule, Hamburg-Le Havre-Southampton-Cobh-New York, from 22 June 1938 to 5 January 1939. Ships Included the Manhattan, President Harding, President Roosevelt, and Washington. Westbound passengers embarking at Havre. Southampton or Cobh are advised to verify the hour of departure by communicating with our nearest European office a few days prior to their scheduled return, sailing hours of steamers from these ports being subject to minor changes due to tide and weather conditions. SS Manhattan Passenger List, 29 June 1938. GGA Image ID # 1ea8f390ed

Sailing Schedule, New York-Cobh-Plymouth-Le Havre-Hamburg, from 22 June 1938 to 22 December 1938. Ships Included the Manhattan, President Harding, President Roosevelt, and Washington. SS Manhattan Passenger List, 29 June 1938. GGA Image ID # 1ea95303be

Sailing Schedule, Hamburg-Havre-Southampton-Cobh-New York, from 15 March 1939 to 20 July 1939. Ships Included the Manhattan, President Harding, President Roosevelt, and Washington. Westbound passengers embarking at Havre, Southampton, or Cobh are advised to verify the hour of departure by communicating with our nearest European office a few days prior to their scheduled return, sailing hours of steamers from these ports being subject to minor changes due to tide and weather conditions. SS Manhattan Cabin Passenger List, 10 March 1939. GGA Image ID # 210d416221

Sailing Schedule, New York-Cobh-Plymouth-Southampton-Havre-Hamburg, from 10 March 1939 to 6 July 1939. Ships Included the Manhattan, President Harding, President Roosevelt, and Washington. SS Manhattan Cabin Passenger List, 10 March 1939. GGA Image ID # 210d80b04d

Sailing Schedule, Hamburg-Le Havre-Southampton-Cobh-New York, from 16 August 1939 to 4 January 1940. Ships Included the Manhattan, President Harding, President Roosevelt, and Washington. SS Washington Passenger List, 22 August 1939. GGA Image ID # 1edfa341bf

Route Maps, Track Charts, Abstract of Logs

Abstract of Log, SS Washington, Voyage 18 Eastbound, from New York to Southampton via Cobh and Le Havre, Wednesday, 4 May 1949. Distance from New York to Cobh 2,960 Miles. Passage Time 5 Days, 13 Hours, 28 Minutes. Average Speed 22.18 Knots. GGA Image ID # 1edbf5501f

Abstract of Log, SS Washington Voyage 18, Westbound, from Southampton to New York via Le Havre and Cobh, Friday, 13 May 1949. Left Nab Tower 3:15 pm BST, 13 May 1949, Arrived Le Havre L. V. 6:46 pm BST, 13 May 1949. Passage Time Southampton to Le Havre: 3 Hours 31 Minutes, Distance 75 Miles, Average Speed 21.31 Knots. Left Le Havre L. V. 12:45 am BST, 14 May 1949, Arrived Daunt L.V. 5:06 pm, BST, 14 May 1949. Passage Time Le Havre to Cobh: 16 Hours, 21 Minutes. Distance 362 Miles, Average Speed 22.14 Knots. Distance from Cobh to New York 2,912 Miles. Passage Time 5 Days, 14 Hours, 50 Minutes. Average Speed 21.59 Knots. GGA Image ID # 1edb7c1845

Guides

Guide to Public Rooms and Accommodations on the New SS Washington, 1933. GGA Image ID # 1edf5a3170

Directory of Public Rooms, SS Manhattan and SS Washington, May 1936. GGA Image ID # 1eab7b30b3

Programs

Musical Program, Private Dinner Menu & Dance, Masonic Masters and Wardens on the SS Washington of the United States Lines, 13 December 1933. GGA Image ID # 12bfecac05

Back Cover Images

Back Cover, United States Lines SS Washington Tourist Class Passenger List - 29 December 1933. GGA Image ID # 16562590a7

Back Cover, General Information for Passengers, United States Lines SS Manhattan and Washington, May 1936. GGA Image ID # 1eac5288fa

Officers Sleeve Stripes

Officer's Sleeve Stripes Included in the United States Lines SS Washington Cabin Class Passenger List for 10 January 1951. GGA Image ID # 170fe988f0

Photographs

Arial View of the SS Washington at Sea. The Ocean Ferry, May 1933. GGA Image ID # 1edfd04ea5

"Yo-Heave-Ho" Is Not an Outmoded Expression, Even on Modern Ships, When Awnings Are Spread. Sailors on the SS Washington Spread Awnings on the Deck. USL Spring & Summer Travel Number, 1938. GGA Image ID # 1bdf4b19e7

Captain Giles Stedman of the Washington Is Known Not Only as an Unusually Capable "Skipper"—but as a Gracious and Thoughtful "Host" to His Passengers. USL Spring & Summer Travel Number, 1938. GGA Image ID # 1be04533a8

Here's an Enjoyable "Shot" of the SS Washington Taken on Sailing Day. Those Puffs of White by the Forward Funnel Are the Blasts of the Whistle as the Colossal Ship Backs from Her Pier, Her Band Playing Gaily, and Her Rails Lined with Voyagers Waving Last "Au Revoirs" to Their Friends on Shore. USL Spring & Summer Travel Number, 1938. GGA Image ID # 1be05b3119

Mr. And Mrs. Curtis and Rebecca Rea Enjoy an Afternoon Stroll on One of the Broad and Airy Promenade Decks of the SS Washington. USL Spring & Summer Travel Number, 1938. GGA Image ID # 1eacee4b13

Looking "Aft" from the Boat Deck onto the Broad and Sunny Game and Recreation Deck for Which the Manhattan and Washington Are Especially Noted. USL Spring & Summer Travel Number, 1938. GGA Image ID # 1ead8c86ac

Morning Swim On The Manhattan And Washington. The Pools Are Not Only Huge and Handsomely Tiled Throughout, but Conveniently Located Right Next to the Gymnasiums. USL Spring & Summer Travel Number, 1938. GGA Image ID # 1eae969751

Shuffleboard on the SS Washington's Sunny Sports Deck. For People Who Like to Walk, It's Only Eight Laps to a Mile and This Picture Just About Proves It. USL Spring & Summer Travel Number, 1938. GGA Image ID # 1eaf3c9d6e

Cabin Class Dining Room on the SS Washington. Travel in Luxury at Low Cost, 1939. GGA Image ID # 1edcfa2891

Excerpts from Information for Passengers

Information for Passengers, September 1936

Sailing Permits—Eastbound

Eastbound passengers who are not citizens of the United States must hold Certificates of Clearance (Sailing Permits) issued by the Collector of Internal Revenue for the district in which they reside. In New York Certificates of Clearance may be secured from the Supervising Internal Revenue Agent, Room 131, Custom House, Bowling Green, New York City.

There are no requirements to be met in this connection by U.S. Citizens sailing from the United States.

Source: SS Washington Passenger List - 9 September 1936

Information for Passengers, August 1939

The Largest Steamer Ever Built In America From

Hamburg ... ... August 22nd, 1939

Havre ... August 24th, 1939

Southampton August 24th, 1939

Cobh ... August 25th, 1939

Greetings

We bid you a hearty welcome on board this great American liner, and we hope you will thoroughly enjoy the voyage.

The Manhattan and Washington are sister ships, the largest liners ever built in America.
These superb steamers mark a new and forward step in the history of the American Merchant Marine. Their popularity shows that discriminating travelers of all lands appreciate our endeavors to provide service and cuisine in keeping with the highest standards.
United States Lines.

“ “TRAVELERS abroad are to a great extent un- ' official envoys of their country, and can often influence some of those they meet to return their visit, to the benefit of international understanding, commerce and goodwill

AT YOUR SERVICE

When visiting the United States and Canada, the Offices of the United States Lines are at your service to advise and assist in any way possible.

Travelers with special purposes in view— business, social, educational, etc., are invited to make use of this service, which—gratis of course— will do everything possible to assist in bringing the passenger in touch with the desired persons or firms.

Source: SS Washington Passenger List - 22 August 1939

Information for Passengers, January 1951

Information Forms. Please fill out and return your Information Form to the Purser’s Office, at your very earliest convenience. The information requested is necessary for the completion of passenger manifests and landing cards, the ordering of train equipment, etc. Failure to provide this information promptly may delay your debarkation.

Chances in Accommodation: Changes in accommodation may only be made by the Purser on payment of any difference in fare which may be required in accordance with the Company’s schedule of passenger fares.

Amusements on Board: Moving Pictures, Bingo Games, Horse Races, Deck Game Tournaments, Dancing and other activities on board, will be listed on the bulletin boards.

Baggage: Information regarding baggage matters may be obtained by consulting the Baggage Master at the Purser’s Office in the “C” Deck Foyer. The Company accepts no responsibility for baggage or parcels left on board, except by arrangement with the Baggage Master.

Baggage Room: The Baggage Room is open to Passengers from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. daily, or by special appointment with the Baggage Master.

Baggage Insurance: The Company’s liability for loss of or damage to baggage and valuables is strictly limited, but Passengers can protect themselves by Baggage Insurance which may be purchased at the Baggage Office on board.

Barber Shop and Beauty Salon: These facilities are located on “B” Deck. A schedule of prices is posted in the shops, including the following:

Barber Shop

• Shave: $ 0.45
• Haircut: $0.90        
• Tonic: $0.25 
• Manicure: $1.00

Beauty Salon

• Hair Trimming: $ 0.85
• Hair Set: $1.50 and up
• Facials: $3.00 and up
• Manicure: $1.00

Cables, Radiograms and Telegrams (For Dispatch Should Be Handed in) at the Purser’s Office and at least an hour before the arrival of the steamer at any port.

Children’s Playroom is located on the “B” Deck Aft. A Matron is in attendance.

Complaints: It is the desire of the Company and the Ship’s Staff to make your crossing as pleasant as possible. Any compliant regarding service should be reported promptly to the Purser or the Chief Steward so that corrective action can be taken immediately.

Customs Examination: In order to avoid difficulty in Customs examinations, all articles liable to duty must be declared. Passengers should consult the Purser or Baggage Master for the latest available information regarding the Customs regulations of any specific country.

Deck Chairs, Chair Cushions and Steamer Rugs: Deck Chairs can be rented for the voyage on application to the Deck Steward, at $2.00 each; Chair Cushions, $1.00 each; Rugs, $1.50 each.

Divine Services: Protestant Service is held Sundays at 11:00 A.M. in the Main Lounge.

Roman Catholic Mass is celebrated in the Main Lounge. The hours of the Masses are announced on the bulletin boards. An altar is available and complete facilities for celebrating Holy Mass are at the disposal of Roman Catholic clergy by arrangement with the Purser.

Doctor (Ship’s Surgeon) : The Doctor’s Office is located on “B” Deck Aft. The Doctor is authorized to make customary charges, subject to the approval of the Commander, for the treatment of illnesses not originating on the voyage. In the case of illness contracted on the voyage, no charge will be made. Medicine prescribed will be provided free in all circumstances. A registered Nurse is on duty at all times.

Doctor’s Office Hours: 9:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.

Electrical Appliances: Passengers are cautioned against using electric irons or other appliances in staterooms, because of the serious danger of causing a short circuit in the lighting system. Please call your ‘Bedroom Steward before attempting to use current for any except usual purposes.

Fire and Lifeboat Stations: Passengers are urgently requested to familiarize themselves with the notice in their staterooms regarding Emergency Station and Life Boat Number, and also to take part in the Fire and Boat Drills.

Fire Precautions: Passengers are particularly asked to use care when disposing of cigar or cigarette ends and matches and to place them in the receptacles provided for the purpose in the different parts of the ship. Do not throw overboard lighted cigar ends or cigarette ends as they may be drawn into open ports and cause fires. Careful observance of this request is earnestly urged of all Passengers.

Lost and Found Articles may be claimed or left at the Purser’s Office.

Mail: Passengers are requested to call at the Purser’s Office for Mail and Telegrams, where forwarding addresses may also be left.

Meal Hours: Passengers are earnestly requested to observe the FIXED hours for meals.

Compliance with tills request will aid the Chief Steward and his Staff in maintaining a high standard in the kitchen and improve the service in the Dining Room, and your cooperation will be greatly appreciated by the Officers and Crew of the ship and the Management ashore.

When One Sitting   

• Breakfast from 8:30 A.M.  
• Luncheon from 12:30 P.M.
• Dinner from 6:30 P.M.      

When Two Sittings

• Breakfast: 8:00 A.M. and 9:15 A.M.
• Luncheon: 12:00 Noon and 1:15 P.M.
• Dinner from: 6:00 P.M. and 7:15 P.M.

Payments On Board: Passengers are requested to obtain a receipt on the Company’s form for any additional passage money, deck chair, steamer rug or chair cushion hire, cables, telegrams or baggage charges paid on board.

Ports in Ship’s Side: Passengers should not attempt to open ports. The Bedroom Steward will render this service when desired, provided it is not contrary to the Commander's orders and weather conditions permit. Careful observance of this precaution will avoid accidents, assure the comfort of Passengers, and will prevent injuries to Passengers and damage to baggage and personal effects.

Postage Stamps can be purchased from the Library Steward. Letters can he mailed on board.

Professional Gamblers: Passengers are reminded that professional gamblers are reported as frequently traveling on trans-Atlantic passenger ships and are warned to take precautions accordingly.

Round Trip Passengers: Passengers holding return tickets, who are undecided about their addresses abroad, should send this information to the nearest office of the Company as soon as possible after landing, so that they may be promptly advised of possible changes in sailings and other matters pertaining to their return passage.

Those who hold return tickets are requested to communicate with our nearest office immediately on arrival in Europe or the United States to confirm their reservations and learn of any necessary formalities to be arranged prior to sailing.

If for any reason the holder of a return ticket is unable to travel by the sailing indicated on the ticket, immediate advice should be sent to the Company’s nearest office so that the accommodations held may be resold and other reservations arranged. Otherwise the passage money may be forfeited.

Seats at Table: The Assistant Chief Steward is in charge of the Dining Room and will assign table seating, if not previously arranged. Reservation Desk is located in the Forward Lounge, Promenade Deck.

Service Clubs: Rotarians, Kiwanians, Lions and members of similar organizations are invited to register their names at the Purser’s Office so that the ship’s officers may be able to acquaint them with other members of their respective organizations who are traveling in the ship.

The Shop: Located on the Promenade Deck, Port Side Forward, you will find a fine assortment of wearing apparel, drug supplies, French perfumes, toilet articles, soap, novelties, souvenirs, and many other items for your comfort and convenience. You will also find a fine assortment of gifts.

Valet Service: Pressing Service is provided for the convenience of passengers. Apply to your Bedroom Steward for this service:

Price List—Men’s Garments

• Suit (2- or 3-pieces): $1.00
• Coat: $0.75
• Trousers: $0.50
• Top Coat: $1.00
• Heavy Overcoat: $1.25
• Tuxedo Suit: $1.25
• Full Dress Suit: $1.50
• Sport Shirt: $0.50

Price List—Women’s Garments

• Suit (Coat and Skirt): $1.50
• Skirt: $1.00                                
• Jacket: $0.75
• Cloak, Silk Coat and Skirt, Dresses, Gowns: Prices will be quoted on request
• Slacks: $0.75

Valuables: A safe is provided in the Purser’s Office in which passengers may deposit money, jewelry or other valuables for safekeeping in accordance with the terms of the passenger contract ticket. A receipt for articles so deposited will be issued by the Purser. The carrier will be under no liability whatsoever for money, jewelry or other valuables, unless so deposited.

Important Notice to Passengers Regarding Safety At Sea

Please Read Carefully

Your entire trip can be spoiled by a sprain, bruise or other minor injury.

We wish you to enjoy a safe passage and urge your cooperation by carefully observing the following precautions:

• Do not run on the ship.
• Do not allow children to run or play unattended, or to sit or play on stairways.
• Walk carefully over wet spots on the decks.
• Do not smoke in bed.
• Be sure cigar and cigarette ends and matches are extinguished and placed in the receptacles provided for them throughout the ship.
• Do not throw overboard lighted cigar and cigarette ends or lighted matches as they may be drawn into open portholes or ventilators.
• Do not discard refuse of any kind on the decks. Place it in the receptacles provided throughout the ship.
• Do not remove safety hooks from furniture.
• Always use the berth ladder to enter an upper berth, making certain that the berth ladder is securely in place.
• Do not attempt to open or close portlights or deadlights. Call your Room Steward to do this.
• Do not move about in darkened rooms. Make use of the lighting facilities.
• Avoid holding on to frames of open doors. The ship’s movement may cause the door to close suddenly on your hand or fingers.
• Use the elevators for going from one deck to another. They are operated for your convenience.
• Do not wear high heels when playing deck games.
• The following precautions are especially important when the ship is rolling or pitching in bad weather:
• Use the handrails in passageways, on stairways, and in bathrooms.
• Hold on to safety ropes, handrails or secured furniture when crossing open foyers and passing through public rooms.
• Do not stroll about the ship unnecessarily. Remain seated in furniture which is secured.
• Brace yourself when sitting in a straight-backed chair.
• If your chair should move in the Dining Room while at meals, hold on to the table—do not attempt to save table utensils or equipment.

Please do not ignore these precautions. They are urged for your safety.

Important Notice to Round Trip Passengers

Passengers holding westbound tickets are requested to call at the nearest Company Office in Europe as soon as possible after arrival abroad, to obtain full particulars about westbound embarkation and boat train arrangements and any formalities which must be complied with.

Those who are undecided about their addresses abroad, should furnish this information to the nearest Company office as soon as possible after arrival in Europe, so that they may be kept promptly informed of possible changes in sailings and any other matters affecting return passage.

If for any reason holders of return tickets are unable to travel on the sailings indicated on their tickets, immediate advice should be sent to the Company’s nearest office so that the accommodations held may be resold and other reservations arranged. Otherwise the passage money may be forfeited.

Important Notice to Round Trip Passengers

Passengers holding westbound tickets are requested to call at the nearest Company Office in Europe as soon as possible after arrival abroad, to obtain full particulars about westbound embarkation and boat train arrangements and any formalities which must be complied with.

Those who are undecided about their addresses abroad, should furnish this information to the nearest Company office as soon as possible after arrival in Europe, so that they may be kept promptly informed of possible changes in sailings and any other matters affecting return passage.

If for any reason holders of return tickets are unable to travel on the sailings indicated on their tickets, immediate advice should be sent to the Company’s nearest office so that the accommodations held may be resold and other reservations arranged. Otherwise the passage money may be forfeited.

Source: SS Washington Passenger List - 10 January 1951

Books Referencing the SS Washington

Introducing The New SS Washington - 1933

In giving our readers their first impression of the new Washington through the sparkling pencil drawings by Herman Sohn appearing in this issue, we are presenting these beautiful interiors far more faithfully than we could with photographs. Here we have something more than an accurate reproduction of the physical features of the rooms —we have their spirit, essence, and personality, which the artist has sensed and put down on paper.

The Art of the Redskin Contributes to the Unique Beauty of the First Class Smokeroom. GGA Image ID # 1edfdaa5e4

AS The Ocean Ferry goes to press a new American liner, the 24,000-ton Washington, soon to join the transatlantic fleet of the United States Lines, is steaming down the Delaware River from the yards of the New York Shipbuilding Company at Camden, N. J., headed out to sea for her official trial run.

By the time the magazine reaches its readers, this handsome sister ship of the Manhattan will be in New York, the center of interest of the shipping world and a mecca for admiring crowds of visitors during the ten days she will be at her Hudson River pier before departing on her maiden voyage on May 10.

With the Manhattan, she will ply between New York and Hamburg via Cobh, also calling at Plymouth and Le Havre, eastbound, and Le Havre and Southampton, westbound.

The delivery of the SS Washington marks the completion of a contract signed in May 1930 with the New York Shipbuilding Company for the construction of both the hulls and machinery of two 24,000 ton twin liners for the North Atlantic trade. The first was the SS Manhattan, which was put into commission last August and is now one of the most popular liners on the Atlantic.

The second of the vessels was launched on August 20 last, in the presence of 12,000 people, just ten days after New York had speeded the Manhattan first on her maiden voyage. As a sponsor, Mrs. T. V. O'Connor, wife of the former chairman of the Shipping Board, christened the vessel Washington after the nation's capital, with water drawn from the old spring at Mount Vernon, George Washington's estate on the Potomac.

In outward appearance, the SS Washington could not be distinguished from her sister ship, even by an expert. The same features that characterize the SS Manhattan have been employed to give the Washington a distinctive appearance at sea: straight, raked stem and merchant cruiser stern, widely spaced elliptical funnels with elegant red, white, and blue bandings, well-placed masts, black painted hull, and white superstructure.

An overall length of 705 feet and a gross registered tonnage of slightly more than the SS Manhattan's 24,000 tons gives the SS Washington the rank of largest vessel ever built in the United States. Her beam measurement is 86 feet, and her molded depth is 47 feet.

Triple series turbines propel her, and a guaranteed speed of 20 knots ranks her with the SS Manhattan as the fastest cabin liner in the world. She accommodates 1100 passengers in cabin, tourist, and third classes.

While she was built to virtually the same plans as the Manhattan, the builders kept pace with every new development in marine architecture and engineering during the two years that the ship was under construction and have been able to incorporate certain new refinements which make her the last word in steamship design and construction.

For comfort and convenience and artistic treatment of decoration, these vessels achieve a standard of taste and efficiency that would have amazed the deluxe traveler of a few years ago.

A Corner of the Grand Salon of the SS Washington, Showing Part of the Stage. GGA Image ID # 1ee0397950

Central Section of Library Viewed from One of the Wings. GGA Image ID # 1ee04d0194

Eternal spring reigns in the cabin and tourist dining saloons, for an air conditioning plant provides manufactured weather that is never too hot nor too cold, never humid, and never too dry, whatever the weather may be outdoors. The same system has a magic way of dealing with food odors.

In all the cabin staterooms, a modern punkah-louver system supplies fresh air of just the right temperature utilizing a system of tubes and fans.

In all three classes, cabins are of a generous size, hard to associate with ship accommodations. They are furnished with full-sized beds, which in the cabin section are made of lovely woods that harmonize with the exquisite paneling, one of the chief beauties of the ship's decorative design.

Some rooms have been fitted with a new type of disappearing Pullman upper berth that disappears into the ceiling when not in use and is completely concealed.

The Walter M. Ballard Company, which was responsible for the magnificent interiors of the first of the sister ships, has brought the same great imagination, skill, and artistry to bear upon the creation of beautiful rooms in the SS Washington, both public apartments and the deluxe suites and cabins.

Some of America's finest artisans have contributed to carrying out the details of the decorators' plans, as exemplified by the exquisite ornamental metal work of the master craftsman, Oscar Bach, in the specially designed hand-wrought stair and balcony rails, elevator and ventilator grilles and lock escutcheons.

Forward on the promenade deck is as gay and insouciant a room as ever went to sea, the palm court, a large square room opening onto the broad decks on three sides by wide French doors. Decorated in that delicately charming Chinoise style that was created when the French interpreted Chinese Chippendale, the joyousness of the room is at once infectious.

True to its Chinese character, the room's walls are a crucial decorative motif. For these, Lazzarini painted, not without a delicate touch of humor, 36 Chinoise scenic panels in pale lacquer colors on silver and gold backgrounds. These are framed in gold, and the surrounding walls are entirely covered with alternating strips of dully gleaming silver and gold canvas decorated with delicate floral sprays. Square, supporting columns are ornamented with a graceful lattice of pale lacquer red over authentic Chinese floral designs.

Stairway Leading from Verandah Café to Sun Deck. GGA Image ID # 1ee0678258

C Deck Foyer, Showing the Purser's Office at Left. GGA Image ID # 1ee0806e35

A View of the Louis XVI Cabin Dining Saloon Showing the Musicians' Gallery. GGA Image ID # 1ee0cff6a1

The furniture is Chinese Chippendale, and softer shades of the wall colorings are used in the fabrics, in which the room style is carried out in the characteristic Chinese floral and figure designs.

Some are copies of old Mandarin robes, and fragments of antique Chinese hangings inspired some. A Steinway grand piano, specially designed and painted for the room, occupies a mirrored alcove. This is a delightful room for informal afternoon tea dancing, and for bridge.

Leading from the palm court on either side are long galleries, paneled in walnut and decorated in blue and rust color, in early 18th Century English style.

This is the shopping district of the ship, the novelty shop occupying part of the gallery on the port side and the smoke shop on the starboard side. The illuminated chart showing the ship's position and the bulletin boards are on the walls of these galleries, which lead into the most formal of the public rooms.

The Grand Salon

The Georgian style, as it was adapted to stately American Colonial mansions, has been used for this dignified and spacious room, which is the center of the more formal social life of the ship. Panels of beautifully grained walnut and tall fluted pillars form the walls. Bayed window recesses on either side give added floor space and provide harbors for small groups of sofas and chairs.

Two decks in height, the room is given added grandeur by the beautiful mural of Lazzarini, which covers the enormous shallow central dome. A central throned figure of Zeus, a god of gods of old Greece, holds a figurine of Xike in one hand, an impersonation of Victory. At his feet, against the purple folds of his cloak, crouches a lion and an eagle with spread wings stands on the back of his marble seat. Around Zeus, the nine muses circle against a sky background.

"The Palanquin" Mural in the Dining Saloon of the SS Washington. GGA Image ID # 1ee0f46609

"The Trapper" Mural in the Dining Saloon of the SS Washington. GGA Image ID # 1ee1e00e8c

The two murals shown above and the one opposite, which ornament the well of the SS Washington dining saloon, depict Colonial life phases.

The room's character is emphasized in murals in the three lunettes, in which characters in colonial costume personify the seasons. Spring is represented by a girl dipping water from a pool. Blossoming trees swallows in flight and a field in which oxen are plowing form the background.

The languor of summer breathes from the painting of a young girl asleep beside her dog on the bank of a stream. The third mural represents winter as a young man, wooing autumn, as personified by a young girl with a lapful of harvested fruits. Autumn foliage and geese flying south are seen in the background on one side, and snow and reindeer on the other.

A deep recess at the end of this room contains an altar to celebrate mass. This is enhanced with a lovely pastoral background by Lazzarini. When not in use, the altar is concealed by sliding panels. Above this recess is a projection room for talking pictures.

A curtained stage forms a musicians' platform at the opposite end of the grand salon. The frame of the proscenium arch is richly carved in the period's style.

A rich damask in reseda green and silver gray drapes the four full-length windows, hanging from elaborate, gold-bordered valances characteristic of the Georgian era. The same beautiful shimmering silk is used at the casement windows in the vast recesses.

Comfortable lounge chairs covered in hand-loomed tapestries in soft shades of rose, mulberry, green, blue, and gold that complete a harmonious color scheme are arranged with small tables in intimate groupings that ofïset what might be too formal an atmosphere in so spacious a room.

Because of its E shape, the library, a room of quiet corners, is particularly well suited for individual relaxation. It is an Elizabethan Tudor room paneled in oak squares from floor to ceiling.

Bookcases line the walls of the center section, which runs athwartship, and on a long, carved center table stands an exquisite bronze group in modern style by Kelety of dogs in pursuit of a gazelle.

Writing desks and comfortable chairs and sofas are arranged about the two adjoining sections. Draperies of apricot and beige damask at the small-paned casement windows hang from narrow, fringed apricot velvet valances.

Harmonizing shades of old blue and cedar are used in the hand-loomed tapestries and damasks of the furniture to complete a restful color scheme.

Small vestibules on either side with entrances to the deck lead to the most unique and one of the most striking rooms on the ship, the smoking lounge.

Nowhere is the creative genius of the decorators more apparent than in this ruggedly beautiful room that takes its origin in the primitive life and art of the American Indian.

The spirit, the color, and the crude motifs of the Iced Man, here glorified into beautiful modern design, appear in the fabrics, the ornamentation of the room, and in the carvings, into which raw chalk colors—reds, blues, yellows, and greens— have been rubbed.

A Pleasant, Sunny Corner of the Chinoise Palm Court. GGA Image ID # 1ee2101261

Interest naturally centers on the four dramatic murals on the walls of the central well, pictured and described in detail on another page.

A woodburning fireplace, large enough to take the traditional yule log, and built of enormous limestone blocks, occupies most of the forward end of the room.

On either corner of the limestone facing are hand-wrought copper and bronze ornaments in repose by Bach, with spots of color in vitreous enamel. Their design incorporates Indian motifs in the form of the chief's feathered headdress, bows, arrows, and peace pipe. A fender bench twelve feet long and extending out four feet surrounds the fireplace.

On the architrave of the well are four fine American animal heads; bison, caribou, elk, and buffalo, which were chosen by no less an authority on big game than Kermit Roosevelt.

The Fountain of Cupid. GGA Image ID # 1ee219c3e3

The Venetian Verandah Café will be the SS Washington's Supper Club. GGA Image ID # 1ee2337b4f

The fabrics designed for this room contribute significantly to its success. They succeed in looking both primitive and beautiful. A unique process was developed to give the heavy upholstery leather used in some of the chairs the mottled effect of primitive tanning.

The other upholstery fabrics are roughly textured tapestries and homespun with intense colors blended and subdued. A massive round poker table ornamented with Indian motifs occupies the center of the room beneath the well, lighted by hanging lanterns bound in wrought iron with pendants of colored enamels.

Bedroom of a Deluxe Suite. GGA Image ID # 1ee2abd92b

A fine bronze of a crouching buffalo by the well-known American sculptor, A. Phi mister Proctor, stands on a long table back of the sofa that faces the fireplace. An original bronze of a mounted Indian by Cyrus E. Dallin ornaments the top of a high cabinet with an incised carving of Indian motifs into which chalk colors have been rubbed to simulate primitive carving.

Comfortable lounge chairs and small tables are grouped around the square pillars and along the walls. The floor covering is resilient rubber tiling in a swastika pattern in tan and brown.

At the end of the room, on the starboard side, is a small intimate bar with high stools to perch on.

The ship's nightlife will naturally center around the end of the promenade deck. Here a verandah café presents the appearance of a room in an old Venetian palace. A beautiful lighting scheme makes the room particularly glamorous at night and a perfect setting for pretty gowns, charming ladies, gallants, and gay doings.

Twisted columns of dark walnut surround a large oval dance floor. Parchment-colored plaster walls painted with a trellis pattern in salmon and blue appear of great age. The narrow, iron-grilled windows with pointed arches are separated by the period's small twisted and painted columns, and the painted ceiling is beamed in dark walnut from which hang star-shaped lanterns of amber glass.

Surrounding the dance floor are small walnut tables with chairs covered with brocade in which a particular Venetian pattern in blue and gold is woven on a green gold background.

Petite sofas and chairs in graceful Venetian design with loose back cushions upholstered copper-color velvet are grouped beneath the windows—a service bar and a pantry open off the vestibules on either side. The doors open onto a spacious game deck which may also be used for dancing.

On the landing of a graceful stairway leading up from the Venetian café is an equestrian portrait of George Washington. He holds a scroll in his hand, which symbolizes the plan for a significant national capital, then formulates it in his mind. The capitol at Washington, which was later built from the plans of Washington and Major Pierre C. L'Enfant, is seen emerging from the misty background.

The Louis XVI dining saloon on C deck is a regal room of ivory, gold, pale shimmering brocades, and wall spaces in the large two-story central well.

Cream and ivory wall paneling is enhanced with touches of gold and a faint suggestion of the pastel colors used in hundreds of lovely canvases in the beam decoration, complementing the architectural design.

Sitting Room of a Suite. GGA Image ID # 1ee2f6192e

In the dome mural, four girls in flowing draperies, flying around a circular wreath, symbolize the day cycle: Dawn, Noon, Dusk, and Night, while twelve flying doves represent the hours. The artist has dramatically heightened the whole effect by illuminating the edges of the figures and clouds so that the light appears to come from behind—a painted fence from the rim of which ivy hangs frames the mural.

Scenes from Colonial life occupy three walls of the well. In contrast, the fourth wall is filled with a musicians' balcony and a decorative graceful wrought iron railing ornamented with medallions of colored vitreous enamel. The rose and silver brocade hangings frame the balcony opening, and an ivory and silver damask curtain forms a cyclorama at the back. A damask of Dubarry rose and silver drapes the long windows and falls in graceful festoons to form valances. Behind the honey-colored glass of the windows, concealed lights give the effect of sunlight.

The graceful French walnut chairs are covered in Aubusson tapestry.

The tourist dining saloon has a two-story central well like the cabin dining saloon. The effect of a cabin on an old sailing ship is gained by utilizing heavy beams, railings, and ship lanterns.

A glorious chapter of America's maritime history is recalled by the large mural that ornaments the principal wall space in the well. It is called The American Clipper and shows three fleet ships that made fortunes in the China trade, racing along under every inch of canvas.

A figure of Mercury, personifying their speed, occupies the central foreground—many shields bearing symbols of our trade with the Far East ornament the walls.

Cool green has been used for the paneled walls of the tourist lounge, which is simplified Georgian in treatment. Damask drapes of cedar color and brocades and friezes in blue, rust, and henna, harmoniously combined, give warmth to this pleasant and comfortable room.

Cabins in the tourist section are attractively furnished, and small patterned carpets cover the floor. A sand color mohair with a bright border of crewel embroidery is used for bedspreads and hangings. More than 40% of the rooms are provided with a private toilet, an unusual feature in this class.

The same good taste and harmonious coloring that makes the cabin and tourist accommodations so attractive is evident in the simpler furnishings of the third class section.

In addition to a cheery smoking room like that on the SS Manhattan, a lounge on E deck is furnished in a simplified Ilcppel-white style, with comfortable lounge chairs, small tables, bookcases, and desks.

Draperies of block printed linen at the windows have a pale tan ground with a darker tan shadow pattern overlaid with a bold flower pattern in orange-red, green-blue, yellow, and brown. A children's playroom occupies the adjoining space on this deck.

The Snake Dance Mural in the First Class Smokeroom of the SS Washington. GGA Image ID # 1ee32521a8

The Spear Thrower Mural in the First Class Smokeroom of the SS Washington. GGA Image ID # 1ee32eeccd

Trader on the Trail Mural in the First Class Smokeroom of the SS Washington. GGA Image ID # 1ee32efd98

The Night Council Mural in the First Class Smokeroom of the SS Washington. GGA Image ID # 1ee3ff895f

TAKING the art, life, and rugged spirit of the original Americans as an inspiration for the design and character of the smoking lounge on the SS Washington, the decorators have created a room that will uniquely appeal to American travelers and cannot fail to impress anyone of taste.

The center of interest in this rich-toned room is a series of arresting paintings of Indian scenes notable for their spirit, color, and swift drama.

They are the work of Aldo Lazzarini, who, though an Italian born and therefore only a naturalized American citizen, has become an authority on American Indian life through his research work in preparation for painting these canvases and the four that he did for the Manhattan.

The four sides of the central well made an impressive gallery for the paintings, which are lighted naturally during the day from the glass ceiling above and by indirect artificial lighting at night.

Four locales and four tribes arc represented. Most dramatic and swiftly moving is the one presenting Hopi Indians in the weird ceremonial in which they dance with live snakes in their mouths to the wild and savage rhythm of wooden tom-toms. Adobe huts form the background of hot sunlight and sharp shadows.

Brilliant handling of light is the salient feature of The Night Council. A group of Blackfeet Indians squats around a ceremonial fire beneath an open tepee while a brave addresses them. The firelight inside gives a lovely translucence to the canvas of the tepee, on which the shadows of the tent poles are outlined. Outside, a scout keeps watch beside the brave's pinto pony.

The Spear Thrower shows an Ojibway of the Great Lakes country spearing fish from his bark canoe. He wears only a loin cloth, for his method of fishing sometimes requires him to jump in after spearing the fish and capture them with his hands.

The fourth mural, Trader on the Trail, shows a Crow Indian trader on a pinto pony, leading his pack horse over a high trail in the hills of the Northwest.

"Introducing The New Washington," in The Ocean Ferry, New York: International Mercantile Marine Company, Vol. XII, No. 8, May 1933, pp. 7-11, 18-19.