Prior to independence, the thirteen American colonies enjoyed protection from pirates and foreign navies under the British Royal Navy. However, once the United States won independence, the young nation had to defend itself. In 1794, Congress authorized the construction of six warships to became the new United States Navy. One of these warships, USS Constitution, was built at Hartt's shipyard in the North End of Boston. Construction began in 1794 and Constitution launched on October 21, 1797. The ship sailed its first cruise the next year as the Quasi-War with France emerged. Later it served in engagements with pirates off the Barbary Coast in the Mediterranean.
The greatest glory for Constitution, however, came during the War of 1812. Constitution's crew defeated four British frigates during three separate engagements. In battle, Constitution earned the nickname "Old Ironsides" because it appeared as if enemy cannonballs could not penetrate the ship's strong oak hull.
Before and after these voyages, Constitution had to undergo constant repairs and refits. Most of this work was completed here at the Charlestown Navy Yard. After over 200 years in the Navy, Constitution still calls Charlestown home and relies on the same facilities for maintenance and repair.
Today, USS Constitution occasionally sails through Boston Harbor for special anniversaries and commemorations. USS Constitution and its US Navy crew go underway with the assistance of tugboats as they sail down the coast to Castle Island. In the harbor near Castle Island, the Navy crew fires a cannon salute before they turn around to return to the Charlestown Navy Yard.
The Museum
Established in 1972, the USS Constitution Museum serves as the educational institution of USS Constitution.
These tours take place throughout the year, except for major holidays, and last about 45 - 60 minutes. Lines for the tours can sometimes be long, as only a certain number of people can go on board at one time.
The USS Constitution is a gorgeous ship that has been well maintained. The crew were friendly and knowledgeable. They took time to explain the history of the ship including how life was for the sailors who manned her two centuries ago. It's a must-see if you have interest in the Navy, tall-ships, or history.
USS CONSTITUTION is located inside Boston National Historical Park, part of Charlestown Navy Yard in Charlestown, Massachusetts. *NOTE: Due to restricted vehicle access and limited parking availability inside Boston National Historical Park, visitors are NOT allowed to park directly next to USS CONSTITUTION.
Built in Boston and launched in 1797, USS CONSTITUTION is the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world today. During the War of 1812 the ship gained fame and its name “Old Ironsides.” CONSTITUTION remains both a training and ceremonial ship for the Navy, as well as an educational experience for visitors.
The prefix “USS,” meaning “United States Ship,” is used in official documents to identify a commissioned ship of the Navy. It applies to a ship while she is in commission. Before commissioning, or after decommissioning, she is referred to by name, with no prefix.
Come aboard USS Constitution, “America's Ship of State,” and meet the active duty sailors who are part of her legacy today. Then, go deeper into the Ship's history at the USS Constitution Museum with interactive exhibits, hands-on programs, and a vast collection of artifacts that are fun for all ages.
Constitution is most noted for her actions during the War of 1812 against the United Kingdom, when she captured numerous merchant ships and defeated five British warships: HMS Guerriere, Java, Pictou, Cyane, and Levant.
Today, Constitution is the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world and her crew of active-duty U.S. Navy sailors welcome more than 500,000 visitors each year.
The USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned warship still afloat. Constructed in Boston in 1797, she was one of the United States Navy's first men-of-war. Her exploits during the War of 1812 made her the stuff of legend. Americans fought on her behalf to save the great ship from destruction.
Built for speed and versatility, USS Cassin Young engaged in seven Pacific battles in World War II, survived two Kamikaze hits, and served another full decade beyond her expected lifetime. Today, she is one of only four Fletcher-class destroyers still afloat and is docked across from USS Constitution.
The National Constitution Center features a range of exhibitions, live performances, and programs that illuminate constitutional freedoms and immerse you in the extraordinary story of “We the People.” Whether you have 45 minutes, an afternoon, or an entire day, you're guaranteed to be moved by what it means to be ...
The Ship is free to visit on a first come, first serve basis. Please be aware that visitors must pass through a security inspection and show federal or state photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport, before embarking on USS Constitution.
A dense wood that weighed as much as 75 pounds per cubic foot, live oak was extremely strong and resistant to rot and salt air. Though shipbuilders found it extremely difficult to work with because of its hardness, American designers foresaw huge potential in the wood.
Hobby: Calligraphy, Rowing, Vacation, Geocaching, Web surfing, Electronics, Electronics
Introduction: My name is Msgr. Benton Quitzon, I am a comfortable, charming, thankful, happy, adventurous, handsome, precious person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
We notice you're using an ad blocker
Without advertising income, we can't keep making this site awesome for you.
