Eric Chaim Kline, Bookseller

Der Ozean-Express "Bremen" (The Ocean Liner "Bremen") [INSCRIBED AND SIGNED BY THE AUTHOR]

De Groot, F.A. Breuhaus (Hrs.)

München: F. Bruckman AG, ND (ca 1930). First edition. Hardcover. Large quarto. 192pp. Original red and gilt stamped cream paper covered boards. Color frontispiece. Title page inscribed and signed by F.A. Breuhaus de Groot. In this comprehensive volume, enriched by 194 photographic reproductions and illustrations, including 21 in full color, the author documents every aspect of the SS Bremen’s decorations, design, construction, and service. Always articulate, entertaining, and informative, Professor F.A. Breuhaus de Groot has created the definitive Bremen panegyric, a comprehensive account of this fabled liner.

Launched on August 16, 1928, the SS Bremen was a German-built ocean liner constructed for the Norddeutscher Lloyd line (NDL) to work the transatlantic sea route. The vessel was notable for her bulbous bow construction, high-speed engines, and low, streamlined profile. At the time of her construction, she and her sister ship Europa were the two most advanced high-speed steam turbine ocean liners of their day. The German pair sparked an international competition in the building of large, fast, luxurious ocean liners that were national symbols and points of prestige during the pre-war years of the 1930s. She held the Blue Riband, and was the fourth ship of NDL to carry the name Bremen. During WWII Bremen was used as a barrack ship; there were plans to use her as a transport in Operation Sea Lion, the intended invasion of Great Britain.

In 1941, Bremen was set alight by a crew member while at her dock in Bremerhaven and completely gutted. A lengthy investigation discovered that the arson was the result of a personal grudge against the ship's owners, and was not an act of war. She was dismantled to the waterline so the steel could be used for munitions. Her remains were then towed to River Weser and were destroyed by explosives. Some parts of the double hull remain visible to this day. This volume includes a complete list of contractors at rear. Binding rubbed along edges. Slight age toning along paper margin. Text in German. Binding in overall good-, interior in good+ to very good condition. g+. Item #7657

Price: $450.00