The next edition of "Behind PlanPhilly" is "one down and one to go" as we interact with a historic treasure on our Central Delaware riverfront and the PlanPhilly reporter who wrote a book detailing its creation and its legacy.

On Thursday, historian Steven Ujifusa joined PlanPhilly and PennPraxis at the Independence Seaport Museum for a lively coversation and public forum celebrating the release of his book, A Man and His Ship, a deeply researched and revelatory look at the SS United States and its designer William Francis Gibbs.

In March 2007, Ujifusa wrote an incredibly detailed story for PlanPhilly documenting the history of the construction of the SS United States, the fastest trans-Atlantic liner in history, now docked in South Philadelphia along the Delaware River.  Ujifusa's feature remains one of the highest-read stories in PlanPhilly's history and has helped raise awareness of the historical significance of the "Big U," the quirks and dedication of its designer, and has bolstered the SS United States Conservancy's efforts to save it from the scrap yard.

Over five years later, PlanPhilly, Simon & Schuster, Steven Ujifusa and Independence Seaport Museum present Behind PlanPhilly: "A Man and His Ship" Book Release and Conversation.  This will be Simon & Schuster's official launch event of Ujifusa's book, A Man and His Ship, which tells the story of the ship through its architect, William Francis Gibbs.  PlanPhilly will lead a conversation with Ujifusa about the book and the ship's place in history.

And on the evening of August 1, Steve will join PennPraxis’ Harris Steinberg on a Delaware River boat tour we’ve put together to bring people up close to the SS United States.

Event #2: Wednesday, August 1, 6:00-8:00pm -- "A Man and His Ship" VIP Boat Tour of the Central Delaware REGISTER NOW

This event will provide ticket holders with the closest possible look of the SS United States, one-on-one conversation with Ujifusa, and a guided tour of Philadelphia's original riverfront led by the leader of the Civic Vision for the Central Delaware.  Food and drink will be provided with ticket purchase.  Come join PlanPhilly for a beautiful summer evening along the riverfront!

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Ben Franklin Yacht Cruises

401 North Columbus Boulevard (map)

6:00pm - 8:00pm

Tickets: $35

For a preview of the book and a look inside the SS United States, click here.

We hope you can join us for these terrific events!  Please follow the prompts above to order tickets.