Omar Bennett
The USS Constitution, also known as Old Ironsides, is the world's oldest commissioned warship still afloat. It has undergone numerous repairs and restorations over the years, spending significant time in dry dock. The ship first entered dry dock in 1833 and has since been periodically docked for restoration work, with its most recent dry docking ending in July 2017. With a history spanning over two centuries, the USS Constitution continues to be a celebrated vessel, attracting tourists and enthusiasts alike.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Year USS Constitution left the dry dock | 2017 |
| Date USS Constitution left the dry dock | 23 July |
| Time spent in dry dock | 2 years |
| Location of dry dock | Boston Navy Yard |
| Dock name | Dry Dock 1 |
| Restoration work | Replacement of 2,200 copper sheets on the hull, 100 hull planks cut from white oak trees, 468 four-inch copper pins fashioned to hold bronze protective castings |
| Cost of restoration | $12-15 million |
| Current status | Refloated, returned to water |
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What You'll Learn
USS Constitution's history in dry dock
The USS Constitution, also known as "Old Ironsides", has a long history of dry docking for restoration and repairs. The ship first entered Dry Dock 1 in 1833 under the command of Commodore Isaac Hull.
In 2015, the USS Constitution underwent maintenance in the Charlestown Navy Yard's Dry Dock 1. This was the ship's first dry docking in the 21st century. The process involved extensive preparations, including the use of high-powered pumps and light towers to facilitate the work during the night. The ship was refloated on July 23, 2017, after two years of restoration work.
During this 2017 dry docking period, the USS Constitution underwent significant restoration. Approximately 15% of the ship, including the keel, dates back to the 1790s. The restoration team used planks cut from 150 white oak trees designated by the Navy in the 1970s. These planks were steamed and bent to fit the ship's hull, and over 2,000 new copper sheets were nailed to the hull to protect against wood-boring shipworms. Additionally, a blacksmith fashioned 468 copper pins to hold bronze protective castings to the forward edge of the ship's cutwater.
The USS Constitution has a rich history, having been launched in 1797 as one of the six original frigates authorized by Congress. It played a crucial role in protecting merchant ships and saw defining moments during the War of 1812, defeating four British warships. The ship's unique design and sturdy hull earned it the nickname "Old Ironsides."
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Restoration work
The USS Constitution, also known as "Old Ironsides", underwent a 26-month restoration that began in May 2015. The ship was refloated on July 23, 2017, after two years in Dry Dock One of the Boston Navy Yard in Charlestown, Massachusetts. The restoration work aimed to maintain the ship's 1812 configuration, for which it is most known.
During the restoration, 100 hull planks were cut from white oak trees. These planks were steamed and bent into shape to fit the hull. Additionally, 468 four-inch copper pins were crafted to secure bronze protective castings to the forward edge of the cutwater on the bow. To protect against wood-boring shipworms, 2,200 new copper sheets were nailed to the hull, replacing the old copper sheets.
The USS Constitution's restoration in the 1920s provides insight into the ship's history of repairs. In 1927, the ship entered Dry Dock One for a four-year, nearly $1 million restoration. By the time the ship emerged from dry dock in 1930, approximately 85% of it had been replaced to ensure seaworthiness.
The USS Constitution has undergone numerous restorations and repairs throughout its history. In the 1950s, an experiment was conducted using red oak, which was later found to have mostly rotted away by 1970. This led to another restoration period from 1973 to 1974, during which the red oak was removed and replaced.
The ship's restoration work has been supported by various individuals and organizations. Lieutenant John A. Lord oversaw the reconstruction project in the 1920s, and Commander Tyrone G. Martin set the precedent of maintaining the ship's 1812 configuration during preparations for the United States Bicentennial celebrations. The Department of the Navy provided funding for the more recent restoration, with costs ranging from $12 to $15 million.
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The ship's return to water
The USS Constitution, also known as "Old Ironsides", is the world's oldest commissioned warship still afloat. The ship entered Dry Dock 1 at the Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston for a two-year restoration period in May 2015. The restoration work aimed to restore the copper sheets on the ship's hull and replace deck boards, with the Department of the Navy providing $12-15 million for the project.
During the restoration, 100 hull planks were cut from white oak trees and steamed to bend them into the right shape to fit the ship's hull. Additionally, 468 four-inch copper pins were fashioned to hold bronze protective castings to the forward edge of the cutwater on the bow. To protect against wood-boring shipworms, 2,200 new copper sheets were nailed to the hull, replacing the old copper sheets.
On July 23, 2017, the USS Constitution was refloated and returned to the water in Boston Harbor. The process of undocking the ship involved the use of extra high-powered pumps and light towers, with the dry dock slowly filled with water as the ship was towed out stern-first using a towing bridle. The entire undocking procedure was a slow and stately affair, with the ship eventually returning to its location at Pier One, familiar to many tourists.
The USS Constitution has a long and illustrious history, dating back to its launch in 1797. It first entered Dry Dock 1 in 1833 under the command of Commodore Isaac Hull and played a significant role in the War of 1812. The ship's unique design proved superior to British front-line ships, defeating four British warships in separate engagements. The USS Constitution's mission today is to promote understanding of the Navy's role in war and peace through public events, educational programs, and special ceremonies.
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The ship's crew
The USS Constitution, also known as "Old Ironsides", is the world's oldest commissioned warship still afloat. It was launched in 1797 and has been through multiple restoration projects over the years.
During the restoration periods, the crew of the USS Constitution works tirelessly alongside ship restorers and riggers from the Naval History and Heritage Command Detachment Boston. They collaborate with teams of sailors and specialists from other naval shipyards, such as the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, to ensure the safe docking and undocking of the ship.
The crew's duties extend beyond maintenance and restoration. They are actively involved in promoting the Navy's role in war and peace through public events, outreach programs, and historic demonstrations. By keeping the ship open to visitors year-round, the crew of the USS Constitution ensures that the public can learn about the ship's rich history and its significance in naval warfare.
The commanding officer of the USS Constitution as of 2022 is Billie J. Farrell, who became the first woman to hold this position. The crew, under the leadership of Commander Farrell, continues to uphold the ship's mission and preserve its legacy for future generations.
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The USS Constitution Museum
The museum, through its collections and interactive exhibits, tells the story of Constitution ("Old Ironsides") and the people who designed, built, and sailed her. The museum is also home to the Samuel Eliot Morison Memorial Library and includes a comprehensive archival repository of records related to the ship's history.
The museum offers a variety of exhibits and experiences for visitors of all ages. One of the highlights is the "All Hands On Deck" interactive exhibit, which allows visitors to step into the world of maritime heritage and naval service. The museum also showcases the story of the battle between Constitution and HMS Java through artwork, archival records, and artefacts associated with the engagement.
The museum also recognises individuals who have contributed to the preservation of the USS Constitution and the advancement of maritime preservation. The Don Turner Award is presented annually to those dedicated to the ancient art of shipbuilding and the preservation of maritime history, honouring their knowledge, skills, and dedication to passing on this ancient art.
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Frequently asked questions
No, the USS Constitution left Dry Dock 1 in Charlestown Navy Yard, Boston, on July 23, 2017.
The USS Constitution was in dry dock for a two-year restoration. This included replacing 2,200 copper sheets on the hull, cutting 100 hull planks from white oak trees, and fashioning 468 copper pins to hold bronze protective castings to the ship's bow.
The USS Constitution has been in dry dock for restoration work multiple times since its launch in 1797. It first entered Dry Dock 1 in 1833 and then again in 1927, 1973, 2015, and 2017.
The USS Constitution's mission is to promote understanding of the Navy's role in war and peace through participation in public events, education, outreach programs, and public access. The ship is open to the public year-round and offers free tours.
