What was the monthly pay for the Surgeon's Steward?

The monthly pay for the Surgeon's Steward was historically set at $18.00. This figure is reflective of the pay structure established for various ranks and positions within the Navy in the early 19th century. The role of the Surgeon's Steward was critical in managing the medical needs of a naval ship and required specific training, which justified this compensation level.

Understanding this pay rate provides context into the broader structure of naval ranks and the importance placed on medical personnel. Early Navy pay scales were designed to accommodate the increasing responsibilities and specialization within the corps, illustrating the value of trained medical staff in the fleet.