President’s Day
President’s Day is February 20rd. Prior to 1968, this holiday was split between the birth dates of Abraham Lincoln (February 12th), our 16th President, and George Washington (February 22nd), the United States’ first President. Washington's birthday was first observed in 1796. Lincoln's birthday was first observed in 1865. The accomplishments and qualities of these Presidents and all others are what we recognize on President’s Day. The following accounts of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln stand in contrast to the comfort and liberties we enjoy today.

Presidential Boaters
The accounts of Washington’s crossing of the Delaware River and Lincoln’s excursions on the Ohio River underscore the lack of any comforts in the world of boating we enjoy today. They reflect times in our history when boating was mostly non-recreational—a means of commerce and a necessity of battle. For Washington and his men, boating safety meant surviving cannon fire and the winter elements on their way to Trenton. For Lincoln, it meant survival to the other side of the river to collect his fare. Today survival means reducing risk to all boaters’ lives. Prevention and knowledge are the keys, and the best piece of knowledge and prevention is to wear your life jacket. Boating safety education has steadily evolved since 1776, the time of Washington’s crossing, to the present day realization that no risk is worth the potential consequence.

Click on one of the President's buttons, at left, to read more.