Formation of the System of Navigation Safety in Sweden in the 19th - Early 20th Centuries

The article reveals the process of formation of the navigation safety system in Sweden in the 16th - early 20th centuries. It is established that it took place on the basis of formation of the legal status of helmsmen (pilots) endowed with state estates and performing the corresponding functions. Special helmsmen were hired for the naval fleet. By the end of the 18th century a system of pilotage service was formed in Sweden by royal decrees in 1642, 1687 and 1696. In 1677 the state pilotage service was established with the creation of the board for pilotage and lighthouse service. Pilotage and lighthouses were managed by the Director of Pilots, subordinate to the Admiralty Collegium. In 1803 the pilotage office was transferred to the Maritime Affairs Department. In 1872 the pilotage and lighthouse affairs were separated from this Directorate and transferred to the Pilotage Board. Since 1888 its director was promoted to the rank of pilot-general. In 1904, 6 pilotage districts were organized, and the Pilotage Council (subordinate to the Ministry of Maritime Defense) was established as a general guide for the Pilotage Board and subordinate pilotage districts.