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The Virginia V Foundation

The mission of The Steamer Virginia V Foundation is to promote the Puget Sound's maritime heritage through the restoration, preservation, operation, and interpretation of the National Historic Landmark vessel S.S. Virginia V.

By maintaining the Virginia V as a working vessel, as well as a living museum, the Foundation provides a first-hand opportunity to experience Puget Sound’s maritime and commercial transportation heritage. As a maritime community ambassador, the Foundation plays a leading role in the Northwest region by developing partnerships with other maritime organizations and waterfront communities with educational programs that utilize the Virginia V to better understand and promote the maritime history of western Washington State’s history.

Restoration
In 2002, the Foundation was able to put Virginia V back in service after a six-year, $6.5 million stem-to-stern restoration project. It included a rebuild of the steam engine, construction of a new boiler and rebuild of the superstructure using traditional tongue and groove fir planking. The Foundation carried the Virginia V into the 21^st century in excellent condition. The Foundation was honored in 2001 with the Washington State Historical Society's "David Douglas Award" for the restoration work completed to-date.

In the winter of 2005 Virginia V was dry-docked for re-planking; the last major project of the restoration. Approximately 30 planks and futtocks were replaced with high quality, disease-resistant timbers.

If you wish to make a donation to help the Foundation complete the restoration to this National Historic Landmark Vessel, please complete the Special Campaign Form and mail your contribution into our offices today! And, "thanks for keeping the steam up"!

Maritime Heritage
A heritage/history education program for school-age children, Whistle Stops: Maritime Heritage Aboard the Virginia V, funded in part by King County 4-Culture, was introduced in the spring of 2005.

Membership: Preserving a National Historic Landmark Vessel
In 1992 the Virginia V was designated a National Historic Landmark. Maintaining a historic wood vessel, especially one that also operates a steam engine, is an on-going endeavor! By becoming a member, you help the Foundation preserve this wonderful historic treasure for all to enjoy, now and into the future. Members receive discounts on tickets for public sailings, merchandise, as well as a discount on a private charter. Become a member, or renew your membership today!

Volunteer! We are always in need of volunteer deck hands, firemen (engineering), docents and special event/public sailing support staff. For more information, please go to our Volunteer page.