Semper Paratus...here in Presque Isle County and everywhere.
The Coast Guard’s motto, “Semper Paratus” (“Always ready”), is as applicable here in Presque Isle County as it is throughout the Great Lakes – and maybe more. Presque Isle County is steeped in marine history, and the Coast Guard has been a part of it every step of the way.
The United States Coast Guard is the oldest military branch in the country, established in 1790 dring President Washington’s administration. Originally called the Revenue Cutter Service, it merged with the US Life Saving Service in 1915 to form the organization as we know it today.
In Presque Isle County, the Coast Guard has made an immeasurable impact with their life saving services, making a difference for so many who served on the freighters. They played a major role in the construction and operation of area lighthouses. But more unique than any of those efforts, Station Hammond Bay, established in 1876 just north of Rogers City along US-23, contributes some unique history to the area.
Station Hammond Bay was established in 1876 by the US Life Saving Service, and then served as a Coast Guard Station until it was decomissioned in 1947. In 1950, they repurposed the facility as the USGS Hammond Bay Biological Station. There, they focus on controlling the population of sea lamprey, an invasive species that has damaged natural fish populations in the Great Lakes. In partnership with the Coast Guard, the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, and Michigan State University, scientists have developed lamprecides and barriers that have significantly reduced lamprey populations.
This effort is is perhaps the most successful invasive species population control program in the world. They continue to innovate today, with studies in pheromone and sterile male releases playing a major role in slashing these populations by 90%.
The Presque Isle County Historical Museum salutes the Coast Guard and their amazing work in the area with a thoughtful, informational exhibit that covers these stories and more.