Isabella Carter
The USS Constitution, also known as Old Ironsides, is a three-masted wooden-hulled heavy frigate of the United States Navy. It is the world's oldest commissioned naval warship still afloat, launched in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1797. The USS Constitution played a significant role during the War of 1812, earning its nickname Old Ironsides when British cannonballs seemed to bounce off its sturdy oak hull. The ship's resilience and victories in several naval battles, including defeating five British warships, boosted American morale and naval prestige. Today, the USS Constitution serves as a floating museum in Boston Harbour, offering visitors a glimpse into naval history and American heritage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Launch Year | 1797 |
| Type of Ship | Three-masted wooden-hulled heavy frigate |
| Length | 204 ft (62 m) |
| Width | 43 ft 6 in (13.26 m) |
| Displacement | 2,200 tons |
| Gun Range | 1,200 yards (1,100 m) |
| Number of Guns | 50+ |
| Crew Capacity | 450 |
| Original Cost | $300,000+ |
| War of 1812 | Defeated five British warships: HMS Guerriere, Java, Pictou, Cyane, and Levant |
| First Female Commanding Officer | Commander Billie June (BJ) Farrell |
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What You'll Learn
- The USS Constitution is the world's oldest commissioned naval warship still afloat
- The ship was built in Boston, Massachusetts, at Edmund Hartt's shipyard
- It played a significant role in the War of 1812, earning its nickname, Old Ironsides
- The ship was condemned as unseaworthy in 1830 but rebuilt and preserved
- The USS Constitution is a National Historic Landmark, inspiring generations of Americans
The USS Constitution is the world's oldest commissioned naval warship still afloat
The USS Constitution, also known as "Old Ironsides", is a wooden-hulled, three-masted heavy frigate of the United States Navy. It was launched in 1797 and is the world's oldest commissioned naval warship still afloat.
The USS Constitution was built at Edmund Hartt's shipyard in Boston, Massachusetts. It was one of six original frigates authorized for construction by the Naval Act of 1794 and was named by President George Washington. The ship was designed by Joshua Humphreys to be stronger, larger, and more heavily armed than standard frigates of the period. Its hull was built 21 inches thick, with a length of 204 feet and a width of 43 feet. The USS Constitution's first duties were to provide protection for American merchant shipping during the Quasi-War with France and to defeat the Barbary pirates in the First Barbary War.
The ship played a significant role during the War of 1812, earning its nickname "Old Ironsides" when British cannonballs seemed to bounce off its thick wooden hull. It defeated five British warships: HMS Guerriere, Java, Pictou, Cyane, and Levant. The victories of the USS Constitution boosted American morale and naval prestige.
In 1830, the ship was condemned as unseaworthy and recommended for breaking up, but public sentiment was aroused by Oliver Wendell Holmes's poem "Old Ironsides". The ship was preserved and underwent rebuilding in 1833. In 1844, it began a circumnavigation of the globe. The USS Constitution was removed from active service in 1882 and opened to the public in Boston Harbor in 1905. After a restoration from 1927 to 1931, the ship was recommissioned and visited 90 American ports, drawing more than 4.5 million visitors.
Today, the USS Constitution is docked in Boston, serving as a museum ship where visitors can explore its history. It remains a powerful symbol of American naval history and a testament to the enduring spirit of the U.S. Navy.
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The ship was built in Boston, Massachusetts, at Edmund Hartt's shipyard
The USS Constitution, affectionately known as "Old Ironsides", is a wooden-hulled, three-masted heavy frigate of the United States Navy. It was built in Boston, Massachusetts, at Edmund Hartt's shipyard in the North End of Boston. The keel was laid on November 1, 1794, under the supervision of Captain Samuel Nicholson, master shipwright Colonel George Claghorn, and Foreman Prince Athearn of Martha's Vineyard Athearns. The ship was launched on October 21, 1797, at a total construction cost of about $302,000. It was one of six original frigates authorized for construction by the Naval Act of 1794 and the third constructed.
The USS Constitution was designed by Joshua Humphreys to be stronger and larger than typical frigates of the time. Its hull was built 21 inches thick, with a length of 204 feet and a width of 43 feet 6 inches. The primary materials used in its construction were pine and oak, including southern live oak cut from Gascoigne Bluff and milled near St. Simons Island, Georgia. Enslaved workers were used to harvest the oak used for the ship's construction. The bolts fastening its timbers and copper sheathing on the bottom were made by silversmith and patriot Paul Revere.
The USS Constitution played a significant role during the War of 1812, earning its nickname "Old Ironsides" due to its resilient oak hull. Its victories against British ships like HMS Guerriere and HMS Java boosted American morale and naval prestige. After the war, the ship was celebrated but no longer needed. It was laid up in Boston and underwent extensive repairs before beginning Mediterranean service.
Today, the USS Constitution is docked in Boston, serving as a museum ship and floating museum where visitors can explore its storied past. It remains a powerful symbol of American naval history and a testament to the nation's maritime heritage. The ship's crew of active-duty Navy sailors conducts maintenance and provides tours to the public.
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It played a significant role in the War of 1812, earning its nickname, Old Ironsides
The USS Constitution, one of the United States Navy's original six frigates, has a rich history that dates back to its launch in 1797. One of its most notable periods of service was during the War of 1812, where its performance in battle earned it its famous nickname, "Old Ironsides."
The War of 1812 between the United States and Great Britain saw the young American navy face off against the formidable Royal Navy. The USS Constitution, under the command of Captain Isaac Hull, was tasked with protecting American commerce and disrupting British supply lines. In August 1812, the Constitution scored an impressive victory against the British frigate HMS Guerriere. During the engagement, British cannonballs appeared to bounce off the Constitution's sturdy oak hull, leading the crew of the Guerriere to shout that the American ship was made of iron. This event inspired the famous poem "Old Ironsides" by Oliver Wendell Holmes, and the ship has been known by that nickname ever since.
The Constitution's success in the War of 1812 continued with another notable victory against the HMS Java in December 1812. This battle further cemented the ship's reputation as a formidable opponent, and its performance inspired and boosted the morale of the young American navy. The Constitution would go on to record more achievements, capturing numerous prizes and playing a crucial role in protecting American trade and disrupting British operations.
Beyond its military achievements, the USS Constitution also holds significant value as the Navy's oldest commissioned warship afloat. It is a floating museum and a powerful symbol of American naval history and tradition. The ship underwent a comprehensive restoration in the 1920s and again in the 1970s, ensuring its survival for future generations. Today, the USS Constitution is still an active ship in the US Navy, serving as a testament to America's maritime heritage and a source of pride for the nation.
The legacy of the USS Constitution extends beyond its role in the War of 1812 and its famous nickname. The ship has become an enduring symbol of American resilience, strength, and naval prowess. Its long history and continued presence serve as a connection to the nation's early days and a reminder of the crucial role the Navy has played in shaping the United States' history. The Constitution is a beloved national icon, celebrated in art, literature, and popular culture, reflecting its firm place in the hearts and minds of Americans.
The USS Constitution's performance during the War of 1812, specifically its victories over British frigates, demonstrated the emerging capabilities of the American navy and helped establish the United States as a rising naval power. The ship's prowess and resilience inspired not just Americans but also influenced naval strategies and ship designs globally. The Constitution's legacy continues to shape naval traditions and practices, and its impact on maritime history is undeniable.
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The ship was condemned as unseaworthy in 1830 but rebuilt and preserved
The USS Constitution, also known as "Old Ironsides", is a three-masted wooden-hulled heavy frigate of the United States Navy. It is the world's oldest commissioned naval warship still afloat. The ship was launched in 1797 and played a crucial role in the War of 1812, earning its nickname, "Old Ironsides", when cannonballs seemed to bounce off its sturdy sides.
Despite its storied past, the USS Constitution fell into disrepair and was condemned as unseaworthy in 1830. Public sentiment was aroused by Oliver Wendell Holmes's poem, "Old Ironsides", and the ship was preserved and rebuilt in 1833. This was not the only time the USS Constitution would face condemnation and rebuilding. The ship has undergone extensive restorations throughout its history, reflecting its enduring significance to American naval history and the public imagination.
The preservation and rebuilding efforts of the USS Constitution in the 1830s set a precedent for future generations to appreciate and maintain this iconic vessel. The ship's historical significance and legendary status were already well-established by this time, having played a crucial role in the War of 1812 and earned its famous nickname. The public's attachment to the ship, as evidenced by their response to Holmes's poem, underscored the importance of preserving and restoring the USS Constitution for future generations.
The rebuilding process in the 1830s included several upgrades and replacements. For example, the ship's figurehead, a carving of Hercules, was replaced in 1834 after being damaged in a storm. The ship's bell, made from copper and tin, was also cast in 1834. These upgrades ensured the ship's continued functionality and safety while preserving its historical integrity.
The USS Constitution's circumnavigation of the globe, which began in 1844, further solidified its place in history. Despite being removed from active service in 1882, the ship underwent another extensive restoration from 1927 to 1931 and was recommissioned, showcasing its resilience and historical importance. Today, the ship is docked in Boston, serving as a museum ship and educational resource, with a crew of active-duty Navy sailors who perform maintenance and conduct tours.
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The USS Constitution is a National Historic Landmark, inspiring generations of Americans
The USS Constitution, also known as "Old Ironsides", is a wooden-hulled, three-masted heavy frigate of the United States Navy. It was launched in 1797 and is the world's oldest commissioned naval warship still afloat. The USS Constitution played a significant role during the War of 1812, earning its legendary status through various naval battles. The ship earned its nickname, "Old Ironsides", during this war when British cannonballs seemed to bounce off its thick wooden hull. It defeated five British warships: HMS Guerriere, Java, Pictou, Cyane, and Levant. The Constitution's victories against these ships boosted American morale and naval prestige.
The USS Constitution is a National Historic Landmark, designated in 1960. It has inspired generations of Americans with its storied past and enduring presence. The ship's preservation efforts ensure that future generations can appreciate its historical significance. From its construction to its battles, the USS Constitution remains a powerful reminder of the nation's maritime heritage. A visit to this iconic vessel offers a unique glimpse into the early days of the United States Navy.
The USS Constitution was built in Boston, Massachusetts, at Edmund Hartt's shipyard. The ship was one of six original frigates authorized for construction by the Naval Act of 1794. Joshua Humphreys designed the USS Constitution to be stronger and larger than typical frigates of the time. The primary materials used in its construction were pine and oak. The bolts fastening its timbers and copper sheathing on the bottom were made by the silversmith and patriot Paul Revere. The ship's original cost exceeded $300,000, including guns and equipment.
The USS Constitution has undergone extensive restorations over the years to preserve its historic value. In 1927, the ship was recommissioned and called at 90 American ports on both coasts, receiving over 4.5 million visitors. In 1940, the USS Constitution was recommissioned again at the request of President Franklin Roosevelt. After World War II, it remained at its berth in the Boston Navy Yard and was open to the public free of charge. Today, it is docked in Boston, serving as a museum ship where visitors can explore its rich history.
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Frequently asked questions
The USS Constitution, also known as Old Ironsides, is a three-masted wooden-hulled heavy frigate of the United States Navy. It is the world's oldest commissioned naval warship still afloat.
The USS Constitution is a National Historic Landmark, designated in 1960. It played a significant role during the War of 1812, earning its legendary status through various naval battles. The ship earned its nickname, Old Ironsides, when British cannonballs seemed to bounce off its thick hull. Its victories against British ships like HMS Guerriere and HMS Java boosted American morale and naval prestige.
The USS Constitution is currently docked in Boston, serving as a museum ship where visitors can explore its storied past. It is berthed at Pier One of the former Charlestown Navy Yard, at the terminus of Boston's Freedom Trail.
