PHILADELPHIA (AP) - The SS United States Conservancy is planning to compile an inventory of the furnishings, equipment, ephemera and other artifacts of the legendary ocean liner that still exist.
The conservancy made the announcement Monday on its website, which has a survey for owners of items such as light fixtures, dishes, advertisements and souvenirs, ship models, log books, lifejackets and menus.
The nonprofit group owns the historic ship and is working to redevelop it. The conservancy stressed the survey doesn't mean it's looking for collectors to donate their treasures. It said the goal is to eventually make the information available for researchers and historians, connect fans of the ship and identify potential sources of future loans for exhibitions and displays.
"At this stage, we are simply trying to create a comprehensive record of how the SS United States' legacy endures in material culture and memory," the conservancy said in a statement.
After decades of false starts and shifting owners, the SS United States Conservancy last year bought the five-block-long ship, known to fans as "Big U," from Norwegian Cruise Lines and its parent for $3 million.
The estimated $200 million cost to renovate the ship will come from for-profit entities. The conservancy is exploring possible partnerships with as yet unnamed investors in New York and Miami to redevelop the liner as a stationary entertainment complex with a hotel, restaurants, retail, educational and museum components.