USS Constitution - Old Ironsides

She is the oldest commissioned ship afloat in the world, and is even still in service by the US Navy. First put to sea on July 22, 1798, the USS Constitution, or “Old Ironsides” is still running strong, over two centuries later.

Old Ironsides, one of six authorized for construction by the Naval Act of 1794, was one of the Navy’s capital ships. Therefore, she is larger and was more heavily armed that the other frigates of her time. The historical ship was built at Edmund Hartt’s shipyard in Boston, Massachusetts. Two thousand Southern live oak trees were cut and milled for her construction. Her planks are up to seven inches thick, and a unique cross-bracing of her skeleton contributed to her incredible strength.

The USS Constitution first set sail in July of 1798, and boldly sailed the United States southeast coast during the Quasi-War with France. Over her many years in the sea, she and her crew bravely sailed the waters, protecting American from attacks. She served against the Barbary States of North Africa, found the frigate HMS Guerriere off the coast of Nova Scotia in 1812, and prevented and blocked harm from the United States many more times. It was during its battle with the HMS Guerriere that the USS Constitution was seemingly unharmed after a shot from the British to her side, giving her the nickname, Old Ironsides. Today she is one of just two presently commissioned vessels in the US Navy to have sunk and enemy vessel.

True public support for the ship was apparent in 1830 after she was found unfit for sea after an extensive examination. It was suggested that the great ship be taken out of water and torn apart. However, public opinion strongly opposed this proposal, especially after the poem “Old Ironsides” by poet Oliver Wendell Holmes was published. The public’s voices were heard, and the brave ship was reconstructed and put back into the water once again. Over the years the USS Constitution went through several reconstructions and “face lifts” to ensure that she was fit to patrol the waters and protect the United States.

Today, the ship is the “ship of state” and is considered to be the most famous ship in American naval history. While she once patrolled the waters of the globe to protect her country and ensure its freedom and safety, she now promotes the navy to the millions of people who visit her every year. Old Ironsides and her crew if 55 sailors participate in ceremonies and special events, and also educational programs each year.

The USS Constitution is currently docked at 1 Constitution Rd in Charlestown, Massachusetts. In the summer (April 1 to September 30), the tours begin every 30 minutes, Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5:50 p.m., with the last tour beginning at 3:30 p.m. During the winter (October 1 to March 31), she is open for tours every 30 minutes, Thursday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 3:50 p.m., with the final tour beginning at 3:30 p.m. It is suggested that guests arrive half an hour early to allow time for security. Admission for the tours is free for guests of all ages.

The USS Constitution has protected the United States by patrolling her surrounded waters, fighting whenever necessary. Her bravery is unmatched, her beauty untouchable. A visit to this magnificent ship will inspire each and every of her visitors, while giving them a feeling for her deep history.