
The USRC Thomas Corwin had a notable career in the United States Revenue Cutter Service. It was commissioned in 1876.
The ship was named after Thomas Corwin, a former U.S. Representative and Senator from Ohio.
The Thomas Corwin played a significant role in enforcing customs and revenue laws, particularly in the Great Lakes region.
It was also involved in various maritime rescues and humanitarian efforts throughout its career.
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History of USRC Thomas Corwin
The USRC Thomas Corwin has a rich and fascinating history that spans over a century. She was named after Thomas Corwin, and was commissioned in San Francisco, California in 1877 under the command of Commander Revenue Captain J. W. White.
The Thomas Corwin was originally part of the U.S. Revenue Marine and played a significant role in patrolling the Arctic Ocean. In 1882, she was involved in the controversial bombardment of the village of Angoon, Alaska, while under the command of Captain Michael Healy.

Here's a brief timeline of the Thomas Corwin's history:
- 1876: Named THOMAS CORWIN for the U.S. Revenue Marine Flag: United States
- 17.07.1877: Commissioned in San Francisco, California, her home port during her career with the Revenue Marine.
- 30.07.1877: Sailed for Sitka, Alaska, to patrol in the Arctic Ocean.
- 1882: Participated in the controversial bombardment of the village of Angoon, Alaska.
- 09.04.1898: Transferred to the United States Navy during the Spanish-American War.
- 15.08.1898: Returned to the Treasury Department.
- 14.02.1900: Sold to Corwin Trading Co., Pacific Coal and Transportation Co for $16,500 and used as a merchant vessel.
- 1901: Out of service.
- 1902: In service again.
- 1916: Burned in drydock.
The Thomas Corwin's service was not without its challenges, and she suffered a significant setback in 1916 when she burned in drydock.
Career and Operations
The USRC Thomas Corwin had a varied career, but one notable event was when she pushed an iceberg out of her way, striking it with a tremendous impact that left it in pieces. This was a crucial moment in her journey.
The Corwin's party was able to stake several coal claims, mine and load coal, and return to Nome with 100 tons to sell. Coal was handled in sacks of 200 lb, lowered down cliffs by rope.
In April 1901, the Corwin was towed from Port Townsend to Esquimalt for refitting, but she spent most of the summer tied to the dock due to nonpayment of the dockyard bill.
Service Record
A service record is a crucial part of your career, as it provides a detailed account of your work experience and skills. It's essentially a resume on steroids, showcasing your achievements and responsibilities in a clear and concise manner.

Having a well-maintained service record can make a huge difference in your job search, as it allows potential employers to quickly assess your qualifications and experience. This is especially important in the military, where a service record is used to determine promotions and assignments.
In the military, a service record typically includes information such as your military occupation code, awards and decorations, and any relevant training or education. This information is used to determine your eligibility for promotions and other benefits.
Merchant Career
The Corwin's merchant career was quite eventful, and it's interesting to note that she was used for coal mining in Alaska.
In mid-July, the Corwin headed north on a minerals exploration trip, reaching the coal deposits after stopping at Grantley Harbor and along the coast.
She staked several claims, mined and loaded coal, and returned to Nome with 100 tons to sell, which reportedly sold for $18-20 per ton.

Coal was handled in sacks of 200 lb, lowered down the cliffs by rope.
A second trip developed the mines and brought out 25 tons.
The Corwin was later towed from Port Townsend to Esquimalt and hauled out for refitting in April 1901.
She spent most of that summer tied to the dock for nonpayment of the dockyard bill, until Captain West was sent west with $2000 to settle up.
After paying the bills, Captain West set about finding work for the vessel to pay her keep.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USRC_Thomas_Corwin
- https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Thomas_Corwin_(ship,_1876)
- https://www.abebooks.com/Photograph-USRCs-Bear-Thomas-Corwin-Arctic/22656550989/bd
- https://www.zvab.com/Photograph-USRCs-Bear-Thomas-Corwin-Arctic/22656550989/bd
- https://archives.consortiumlibrary.org/collections/specialcollections/hmc-0069/
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