05/11/2026
⚓ Join Us for National Maritime Day | May 22nd | Navy Pier
On May 22, 1819, the steamship SS Savannah made the first steam-powered crossing of the Atlantic. Congress chose that date in 1933 to honor the men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine: the nation’s fourth arm of defense.
When America went to war, the Merchant Marine went first. In World War II, they crossed enemy-patrolled oceans to deliver the troops, weapons, and supplies that made victory possible — at tremendous personal sacrifice. Their service was essential.
But the Merchant Mariner’s work didn’t end when the wars did. Today, they move the goods that stock our shelves, fuel our industry, and keep our economy running. On our Great Lakes, our rivers, and every navigable waterway in between, they remain quiet guardians of American commerce, safety, and security — largely unseen, absolutely indispensable.
This National Maritime Day, join the Chicago Shipmasters at the Captain at the Helm statue, Navy Pier — 12:30 PM as we recognize National Maritime Day and then host our Blessing of the Fleet, asking safe passage for all who sail and honoring those who served before us. Our website will have a detailed schedule and information on how to join us by land or by water.
We don’t just observe this history, we carry it. The International Ship Masters’ Association are keepers of 140 years of Great Lakes maritime tradition — honoring those who came before, passing it forward with intention.
🌊 chicagoshipmasters.com
