USS Potomac

Completed in 1934 as the Coast Guard Cutter Electra, the vessel was converted into the presidential yacht and commissioned as a U.S. Navy vessel, USS Potomac, in 1936. The 165-foot ship, weighing 376 gross tons and cruising at 10-13 knots, served as Franklin Delano Roosevelt's "Floating White House" until his death in 1945. After a long decline marked by many adventures and many owners, she was purchased in 1981 by the Port of Oakland for $15,000. The Port led a cooperative effort with organized labor, maritime corporations, and volunteers to complete a $5 million restoration. USS Potomac was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1990 and opened to the public in 1995. Today, the Association for the Preservation of the Presidential Yacht Potomac operates the restored vessel as a testament to Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and its volunteer-run organization offers educational programs for students and adults.

Oakland, California · United States