From: Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships, Vol.III, p 493

A Revenue Cutter Service name.

James Guthrie, a cutter built in 1881 by H. A. Ramsey of Baltimore, Md., and used by the Revenue Cutter Service in the Baltimore area, was ordered to cooperate with the Navy during the Spanish-American War. Not needed by the Navy, she operated under military authorities guarding Baltimore Harbor from 9 May to 20 July when she resumed her former duty.

She was transferred to the Navy when the United States entered World War I and guarded Philadelphia, Pa., until returned to the Treasury Department 28 August 1919.