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BIRTHPLACE OF THE COAST GUARD

Coast Guard Gallery

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Thurs-Sat: 10-5, Sun: 12-5

Coast Guard’s Newburyport Origins, Uniforms & More

Docent Lloyd’s Video Tour

Docent Lloyd's Video Tour

Lloyd Says: This gallery shows off many aspects of the U.S. Coast Guard. Founded in 1791 as the United States Revenue Service in Newburyport, the Coast Guard got its name change from President Woodrow Wilson in 1915.

There is a Coast Guard station down the street called Merrimack River Station. In the videos below, we explore how the Coast Guard’s rescue procedure has changed through the years. We also discuss Admiral Rybacki and Coast Guard uniforms.

Gallery Highlights

How Coast Guard Rescues Have Changed in 100 Years

From 47-foot motor lifeboats to breacher boys and shooting shells, Lloyd takes you through how Coast Guard rescues have dramatically changed over the years.

SPARs & Coast Guard Uniforms

Lloyd discusses a brief history of the SPARs and shows off their uniforms—as well as uniforms from various eras of the Coast Guard.

What Will You Learn?

As you enter the Coast Guard gallery, you will be welcomed Admiral Rybacki. As you tour the exhibit, you’ll learn all about the rescue service and how the Coast Guard is used during times of war.

Our gallery has a model of a 47-foot motor lifeboat which is currently stationed at Merrimack River Coast Guard Station. These boats are designed, and the crew trained, to take on the worst weather conditions and rescue those in distress.

As the official birthplace of the Coast Guard, Newburyport honors the men and women of the USCG through displays of Coast Guard artifacts such as ships bells, uniforms, medals, as well as photos and documentation of members of the service.

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View Additional Custom House Galleries

Moseley Gallery

The Moseley Gallery is our largest gallery, providing many highlights of what made Newburyport a rich maritime town. This includes the Newburyport Marine Society and cutting-edge ships like the Dreadnought.
LEARN MORE

Marquand Gallery

The Custom House’s Marquand Gallery details Newburyport’s golden age—the first 50 years after its founding before and during the Revolutionary War.

LEARN MORE

Plan Your Visit

Plan Your Visit

  • Museum Hours

Thurs-Sat: 10AM-5PM
Sun: 12PM-5PM

  • Tickets
Through December 31st, admission has been reduced to $0 thanks to the support of our generous sponsors.
  • Parking

City parking is available adjacent to the museum. View parking lot directions.

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