U.S. Coast Guard History & Key Dates
The United States Coast Guard traces its origins to 1790, when the first Congress authorized the construction of ten vessels to enforce tariff and trade laws. Originally known as the Revenue Cutter Service, it is the oldest continuous seagoing service in the nation.
Revenue Cutter Service established under Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton
Oldest continuous seagoing service in the U.S.
United States Life-Saving Service established
Added search and rescue to the maritime mission
International Ice Patrol duties began
Expanded mission to include ice patrol and maritime safety
United States Coast Guard created by merging the Revenue Cutter Service and the Life-Saving Service
Birth of the modern Coast Guard
United States Lighthouse Service merged into the Coast Guard
Consolidated all major maritime safety functions under one service
Coast Guard operated under the Department of the Navy during World War II
Served in every major theater of the war
Coast Guard transferred to the Department of Transportation
Reflected the growing emphasis on maritime safety and environmental protection
Coast Guard moved to the Department of Homeland Security
Realigned under DHS following the September 11 attacks