For more than a decade, the luxurious S.S. President Warfield carried passengers between Baltimore and Norfolk, Va., until it was called into service during World War II. After the war, a Zionist organization attempted to use the worn ship—renamed Exodus 1947—to bring Jewish refugees to Palestine. Join Pete Lesher, CBMM Chief Historian, and Jeffrey Herf, University of Maryland Distinguished Professor, Emeritus, to explore the legacy of this vessel, from its Chesapeake past to its symbolic role in the formation of Israel.
This event is presented in partnership by Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and Temple B’nai Israel, and made possible in-part through the generosity of Marlene & Phil Feldman.
Light refreshments will be available at 5pm, and the program will begin promptly at 5:30pm.
The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s Speaker Series brings discussion about Chesapeake-related topics to the Van Lennep Auditorium. Events vary, but often include talks by industry experts, discussions with community members, performances by local artists, and screenings of relevant films. Regardless of the topic, each program will leave you with a greater appreciation for the people and environment of the Chesapeake Bay.
S.S. President Warfield to Exodus 1947: The Chesapeake Steamship That Launched Israel
Wednesday October 11
5:00 PM
6:45 PM