USS Ellen (SP-284)

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USS Ellen (SP-284) was a U.S. Navy patrol vessel used during World War I, likely in the New York City area. It began life as a civilian motorboat named Ellen, built either in 1911 at Staten Island, New York, or in 1915 at Greenport, Long Island. The Navy acquired her for war service in May 1917.

Ellen served in the 3rd Naval District on patrol duties around New York City. It is unclear whether she entered non-commissioned service on May 10, 1917 or was officially commissioned on August 10, 1917.

When her Navy service ended is also uncertain. Some records say she was taken out of service on May 31, 1918 and returned to her owner; others say she stayed in service through the end of the war and was sold on April 30, 1919.

Note: Do not confuse USS Ellen (SP-284) with USS Ellen (SP-1209), another patrol vessel in service at the same time.