5The story of SUNY Maritime College begins in the late 1800s with the growing sophistication of ships and a national call for the education of professional merchant marine officers in the same manner as the Naval Academy. In 1873, the State of New York established the New York Nautical School aboard a former Navy ship, the St. Mary's, and in 1875, a group of 24 boys, ages 15 to 19, reported aboard. The nation's first maritime school had opened in New York City. Located today at historic Fort Schuyler off Long Island Sound, the school has a rich history of association with the US Coast Guard and Navy, as many graduates have served in the armed forces. Graduates have become admirals, polar explorers, and even astronauts in outer space. The school has grown in size from the original 24 boys to a regiment and graduate school of over 2,200 students.