Coast Guard's Ninth District: A short history of the Guardians of America's inland seas

The U.S. Coast Guard's District 9 in the Great Lakes region has a long history dating back to the 19th century. It began with the establishment of four predecessor agencies: the U.S. Revenue Cutter Service, the U.S. Lighthouse Service, the Steamboat Inspection Service, and the U.S. Life-Saving Service. The Revenue Cutter Service enforced U.S. laws on the Great Lakes and also conducted rescue operations and patrolled regattas. Captain Daniel Dobbins played a significant role in the early history of the Revenue Cutter Service, including his efforts in the Battle of Lake Erie. The Cutter Gresham, a cruising cutter and auxiliary gunboat, faced controversy over its construction and deployment violating treaties. It was eventually cut in half and transported to the Atlantic Coast. The Lighthouse Service expanded rapidly along the Great Lakes, with many lightships stationed there to warn mariners of hazards. The service eventually replaced most lightships with lighthouses constructed on shoals. The Steamboat Inspection Service was established to survey and certify passenger vessels, ensuring safety measures were in place. The U.S. Life-Saving Service was tasked with providing rescue services on the Great Lakes, but initially faced challenges due to a lack of organization and funding. Dedicated and properly funded lifesaving stations were eventually established, and the service adopted motorized lifeboats.