Introduction |
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| The United States Life Saving Service, with roots in private and
local government maritime rescue efforts, was funded by the government
in 1854 and placed under the auspices of the Revenue Cutter Service (USRCS).
Good intentions fell by the wayside and by 1870 funding and organization
for rescue stations was not in evidence. In 1878, by Act of
Congress, the United States Life Saving Service was organized as a stand
alone bureau of the Treasury Department. At the zenith of the USLSS over
270 life saving stations and life boat stations rendered aid to those in
distress. Reorganization in 1915 placed the USLSS back with
the USRCS as part of the new United States Coast Guard. Few of the
original Coast Guard Life Boat Stations remain in active service along
the coasts of the United States. Many of the former stations are
now attractions protected by the National Park Service or private
museums.
For a thorough history of the
formation of the USLSS see these off site links: Dennis R. Means, National Archives, Prologue Magazine, Winter 1987, Vol. 19, No. 4 Scribner's Monthly, The United States Life-Saving Service, 3 January 1880 US Life-Saving Service Heritage Association |
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