Naval History and Heritage Command

Water Lily, a motor launch constructed for the United States Lighthouse Service in 1895 at Morris Heights, N.Y., was transferred to the Navy in April 1917 along with the entire Lighthouse Service. She operated in the 6th Naval District during America's participation in World War I and for several months thereafter. Water Lily resumed her prewar duties on 1 July 1919 when the Navy returned control of the Lighthouse Service to the Department of Commerce.