The Kronprinzessin Cecilie was a prominent ocean liner built by the North German Lloyd (NDL) shipping company, launched in 1906. With a length of 200 meters and a gross tonnage of 21,700 tons, it was one of the largest and most luxurious ships of its time. Designed for both passenger and emigrant transport, the ship featured advanced engineering for its era, including a combination of steel and iron in its hull, and was powered by a triple-expansion steam engine that allowed it to reach speeds of up to 20 knots.

The ship’s primary function was to carry emigrants from Europe to the United States, particularly from Bremen to New York. The emigrants, many of whom were fleeing poverty or seeking better opportunities, typically traveled in third-class accommodations. These spaces were basic but functional, with large, open dormitory-style rooms that could house dozens of people. The conditions were spartan, with long rows of simple bunks, and little privacy, reflecting the affordability of the passage for working-class emigrants.

For first and second-class passengers, the accommodations were far more luxurious, featuring private cabins, fine dining rooms, and common areas with beautiful wood paneling and artwork. The ship also had a grand dining saloon for these passengers, along with other amenities typical of the time. The Kronprinzessin Cecilie was an essential part of the emigrant journey, connecting families with new lives in America while also playing a significant role in the history of transatlantic travel.



When World War I broke out in August 1914, the Kronprinzessin Cecilie was making her way from New York to Germany. In an effort to avoid capture by Allied forces, Captain Charles Polack was ordered to steer the ship back to the United States. To help obscure the vessel's identity, the crew painted the funnels to resemble those of the British liner RMS Olympic from the White Star Line. The ship sought refuge in Bar Harbor, Maine, where she was ultimately interned.

In April 1917, following the United States' entry into the war, the U.S. Navy took control of the ship. She was renamed USS Mount Vernon (ID-4508), and modifications were made to transform her into a troop transport ship. By July 1917, she had officially been commissioned into U.S. Navy service.

On September 5, 1918, while serving as a troop transport, the USS Mount Vernon was struck by a torpedo fired by the German U-boat U-82. The attack resulted in the loss of 36 lives and caused significant damage to the ship. However, despite the severe impact, the vessel managed to limp to port for temporary repairs in Brest, France. She was later sent to Boston for more extensive repairs, and after restoration, she resumed her duties.