taking-measurements.jpgEvery day, ships sail from the Port of Long Beach, and on the East Coast, weekenders prepare their boats for leisurely afternoons on the Chesapeake Bay. Each one of these mariners uses the resources of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) navigation services to safely navigate U.S. coastal waters.
In recognition of the landmark 200th anniversary of the establishment of the Survey of the Coast, NOAA and the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) have created the exhibit, “From Sea to Shining Sea: 200 Years of Charting America’s Coasts,” which opens Thursday, June 21, at the El Dorado Branch Library in Long Beach’s 5th District.
The exhibit will run throughout the summer, and Long Beach is one of 200 cities nationwide to be a part of this special celebration. To view a complete list of host organizations, visit www.sites .si.edu/host/FromSeaToShin ingSea.htm.
In 1807, President Thomas Jefferson recognized the need to chart the coastal waters of this country as vital to the independence and prosperity of the economy and to the security of this fledgling nation. With his foresight, Jefferson compelled Congress to pass an act establishing “the Survey of the Coast,” a predecessor agency of today’s NOAA.
The Survey of the Coast charted the nation’s ports and waterways, researched physical characteristics of the ocean bottom, and explored many of the world’s oceans. The organization was known for a tradition of perseverance, scientific integrity, engraving and charting skills, and courage.
This exhibit, celebrates the history, accomplishments and scientific contributions of the nation’s first science agency. The 20 colorful posters are illustrated with photos, charts and artwork from the Survey’s archives.
“This year we are proud to be holding a year-long celebration of 200 years of science, service and stewardship to the nation originating with the Survey of the Coast,” said Captain Steven R. Barnum, director of NOAA Office of Coast Survey, which is one of the four offices that continues to carry out the original agency’s mission. “We are honored that our partnership with the Smithsonian Institution has produced this vibrant depiction of our history to help us commemorate this distinguished occasion.”
