NS Savannah - Creation

Creation

In 1955, President Dwight Eisenhower proposed building a nuclear-powered merchant ship as a showcase for his "Atoms for Peace" initiative. The next year, Congress authorized Savannah as a joint project of the Atomic Energy Commission, the Maritime Administration (MARAD), and the Department of Commerce.

She was designed by George G. Sharp, Incorporated, of New York City. Her keel was laid down by the New York Shipbuilding Corporation at Camden, New Jersey. Her nuclear reactor was manufactured by Babcock and Wilcox. She was christened by US First Lady Mamie Eisenhower at the ship's launching on 21 July 1959.

In 1969, Savannah became the first nuclear powered ship to dock in New York City. She was a centerpiece for a city-wide information festival called Nuclear Week In New York. Thousands of persons toured Savannah and the other special events of Nuclear Week In New York. These events included demonstrations of advancements in peaceful uses of atomic energy—such as food products purified by radiation, new applications for technology and many information and education programs. The Johnny Carson "Tonight" TV show featured Nuclear Week In New York on two programs. Dr. Glenn T. Seaborg, Chairman of the US Atomic Energy Commission was the featured speaker and President Eisenhower was honored for his introduction of the global Atoms for Peace program. The appearance of Savannah and the Nuclear Week In New York program was designed and implemented by Charles Yulish Associates and supported by contributions from leading energy companies.