The Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw delivers Christmas trees to Chicago from Northern Michigan for distribution to underprivileged families in the area. The practice of bringing trees to Chicago by boat was started in the 1880s by owners of the Rouse Simmons, the original Christmas ship. The ship sank in 1912 and the practice of bringing trees was resumed by the Coast Guard. The Mackinaw takes the same route as the Rouse Simmons and stops at the shipwreck site to commemorate the original vessel and its crew with a wreath-laying ceremony. For over two decades the Coast Guard has been performing this mission. US Coast Guard Program 2020 Collection, Ob ID# 202013, "Christmas pennant," Sandra Hart, acrylic, 24 x 20
