Boston Marine Society

Based in Boston, the Boston Marine Society is an association formed by sea captains in 1742. It began as the Fellowship Club, whose membership was limited to people who had commanded vessels. Members paid dues into a shared fund. The fund provided payments to members and their families in times of distress or death, according to the nature of the hardship and the fund's means. In 1754, the club received a charter directing it to promote safer navigation and assist members and their families facing poverty or other adverse circumstances. The association adopted its current name in 1809. Its work, as described in its history, centers on maritime safety and support for members and their families during hardship.