The original Continental Navy was established on October 13, 1775. By the end of the Revolutionary War, the Naval fleet had grown to over 50 ships and had established itself as an integral part of American defense.
At the National Archives, researchers can find information on the United States Navy ranging from the wooden-hulled ships of the Continental Navy used in the Revolutionary War to the deployment of massive Carrier Battle Groups and Navy Task Forces. In facilities across the country, the National Archives preserves and makes available the permanent records of the Department of the Navy.
Several naval emblems represented this nautical branch of service until Executive Order 10736 was signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on October 23, 1957, designating an official seal for the Navy. Approved insignia designs and seals are held in trust by the National Archives in the Military holdings.