The Ensign is the official quarterly digital publication of the United States Power Squadrons (USPS), also known as America's Boating Club. It is headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina, and covers topics of interest to USPS members and other boating enthusiasts.
History and Publication
The magazine was first launched in December 1914 and is published quarterly. It transitioned to a digital format as the official digital publication of the USPS. All active members, apprentice members, and Sea Scout affiliates of USPS receive a subscription unless they opt out.
Content
Most articles are written by USPS members and are edited by a professional staff. Each issue typically contains two to four feature articles related to boating or USPS activities. Regular columns and departments include:
- Bridge – a message from a member of the USPS national Bridge
- Soundings – letters to the editor
- Currents – USPS calendar and news
- Shipshape – in-depth technical articles, how-to tips, and safety information
- Ship's Library – book reviews
- Waypoints – local squadron news and activities
- Last Horizon – listing of recently deceased USPS members
- Bitter End – photos, contests, puzzles, nautical quotes and trivia, and stories behind members' boat names
Notable Contributors
Author Marlin Bree twice won the West Marine Writer's Award from Boating Writers International for feature articles published in The Ensign: the 2004 award for "A Solo Sailor Meets His Storm of the Century: The Day All Hell Broke Loose" (June 2003 issue) and the 2008 award for "The Old Man and the Inland Sea" (January–February 2007 issue).
Staff
- Editor: Amy Townsend
- Former editors: Yvonne Hill
Key Details
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Quarterly |
| First issue | December 1914 |
| Company | United States Power Squadrons |
| Country | United States |
| Based in | Raleigh, North Carolina |
| Language | English |
| Website | http://www.theensign.org |
