COALING A CUTTER

Photo: U.S. Coast Guard

Coal was the primary fuel for ships during the 19th Century and early 2oth Century when muscles, steam and shovels ruled the high seas.

Loading coal was tedious and filthy, with crews sweating - and no doubt swearing - for hours to fill a cutter's fuel bunkers. Once a cutter was underway, coal was shoveled and shifted again and again toward the bunkers nearest the boilers.

Boiler stokers and firemen were known in the maritime world as the "black gang" because of the soot that covered their skin and clothes.

Bituminous coal was preferred by many commanders because it "had quick-firing quality and burned hotter, generating faster speeds," according to the U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command, though anthracite burned cleaner.

Photo: U.S. Coast Guard
Coaling the cutter Bear on the Baring Sea Patrol in Alaska. 

Illustration of coaling from a collier.

Some liked it hot. Or were encouraged to do so.