The Origins of the U.S. Coast Guard: Born from a Need to Protect

Before there was a Coast Guard, there was the U.S. Revenue Marine — a small but mighty fleet established in 1790 at the urging of Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton. In the wake of the American Revolution, the new nation faced a serious financial crisis. To stabilize the economy, the government imposed tariffs to generate revenue, but widespread smuggling threatened to undermine this effort. Congress authorized the construction of ten cutters — swift, agile vessels tasked with enforcing tariff laws and ensuring customs duties were paid. These ten ships became the Revenue Marine, later known as the Revenue Cutter Service, and they formed the earliest maritime enforcement agency of the United States.

Ten Cutters, One Mission

Those first ten cutters were strategically stationed along the East Coast, with crews patrolling harbors, boarding suspicious ships, and deterring smugglers. Their mission wasn't just about collecting revenue — it was about asserting the authority of the federal government in American waters and defending national interests. Revenue Marine officers often worked in isolation, enduring harsh weather and dangerous encounters at sea. Yet their service laid the groundwork for a proud maritime tradition. As America's coastlines expanded, so too did the scope and complexity of the Revenue Marine's responsibilities.

Growth Through Mergers and Missions

Throughout the 19th century, the Revenue Marine evolved alongside the country. In 1894, it was officially renamed the Revenue Cutter Service, reflecting a more structured and professional organization. Meanwhile, other federal maritime services emerged, including the U.S. Lifesaving Service, which rescued shipwrecked mariners and passengers. By the early 20th century, it became clear that merging these maritime forces would create a stronger, more efficient service. In 1915, Congress combined the Revenue Cutter Service and the Lifesaving Service into a single organization: the United States Coast Guard.

Semper Paratus Since 1790

While the name "Coast Guard" came long after its founding, the organization's core mission — to protect, serve, and defend — has remained steadfast since 1790. The early cutters may have been built to chase down smugglers, but they also responded to disasters, safeguarded lives, and upheld the rule of law on the water. From those humble beginnings with ten ships and a mandate to collect tariffs, the Coast Guard has grown into one of the nation's five armed services — always ready, always there. Semper Paratus.

Check out our "It Started with Ten" and "Revenue Marine" designs to support Coast Guard Day on August 4th!