The Evolution of the Life-Saving System of the United States from 1837 to June 30, 1892

The first attention given by the national government to the saving of life from vessels in distress, took form when, in 1837, Congress authorized the President “to cause any suitable number of public vessels adapted to the purpose to cruise upon the coast in the severe portion of the season to afford such aid to distressed navigators as their circumstances and necessities may require.” Naval vessels were assigned to the work, but owing to their unwieldiness, at and too great draught of water, they proved unsuitable for coast service and were soon replaced by vessels of the Revenue Marine, and that service has performed the duty ever since.