The Steamer Virginia V Foundation

Mission

The Steamer Virginia V Foundation promotes the maritime heritage of Puget Sound through the restoration, preservation, operation, and interpretation of the National Historic Landmark vessel S.S. VIRGINIA V.

Description

Help Us Keep Maritime History Alive!

Step aboard the S.S. VIRGINIA V, a National Historic Landmark and the last fully operational wooden, steam passenger vessel in the United States. She has spent nearly a century navigating the Puget Sound, carrying stories of adventure, industry, and resilience.

Keeping VIRGINIA V steaming means we can offer unforgettable, hands-on experiences for visitors and volunteers of all ages, inspiring the next generation of mariners and history enthusiasts.

How We Do It

At The Steamer Virginia V Foundation, we don’t just preserve history—we bring it to life! Each year, over 18,000 visitors explore her decks, engine room, and wheelhouse—a floating classroom that hosts cultural events, guided tours, field trips, and our summer youth internship program.

This is where you come in!

For over a century, the S.S. VIRGINIA V has sailed Puget Sound, carrying generations of history on her decks. Now, those very decks need your help! Time and tides have taken their toll, and we must refinish the weather decking—a critical $80,000 project—to keep her safe and seaworthy. We also need $20,000 worth of old-growth Douglas Fir for future restoration projects, which ensures her historicity and longevity. Ongoing general maintenance is also essential to keeping her historic steam engine running strong. VIRGINIA V is more than a ship—she’s a living, breathing piece of maritime history. 

GiveBIG today and help us reach our $100,000 goal to keep this national treasure afloat for generations to come!