A Selfless Mission: Cape Cod’s Lifesaving Legacy
Massachusetts’ coastline is particularly treacherous terrain for sailors. In the 1700's, shipwreck victims often drowned or died of exposure on our beaches before help arrived. Two organizations, the Massachusetts Humane Society and the United States life-Saving Service were established to help lessen the incidents of death on our shores.
Massachusetts Humane Society
The earliest non-federal organization for the prevention of shipwreck deaths in this country, the Massachusett’s Humane Society is a story of human care and concern which continues to this day
United States Life Saving Service
Commonly called a precursor to the Coast Guard, the United States Life-Saving Service formalized and revolutionized shipwreck rescue and lifesaving in this country.