Although NOAA formed in 1970, the agencies that came together at that time are among the oldest in the Federal Government. The Survey of the Coast formed in 1807, the Weather Bureau formed in 1870, and the U.S. Commission of Fish and Fisheries formed in 1871. Much of America's scientific heritage resides in these agencies. Explore our history and heritage!

Read, picture, and listen to history
Deep Dives
Deep Dives

In-depth stories about NOAA's history and heritage.

A washed out photo of a woman working on NOAA's Brass Brains taped to a blue background of waves. The photo bears the words, "NOAAstalgia: Picturing Our Past."
NOAAstalgia

Sharing photos from NOAA and its predecessors' history.

Oral Histories
Oral Histories Project

Documenting history of NOAA through interviews with its leaders.

History of NOAA Timeline
A collaged black and white image of a woman holding a weather balloon.
About NOAA Heritage

The NOAA Heritage Program's mission is to preserve the agency's history, traditions, historic objects, and culture so it will be around for future generations. Where we came from defines who we are today and inspires our future. By telling our unique story, we seek to deepen our workforce’s and the public’s understanding of NOAA’s history and instill a sense of pride and value for our mission.