USS Constitution
(Old Ironsides)
USS Constitution, known as “Old Ironsides,” is a wooden-hulled, three-masted heavy frigate of the United States Navy. Named after the United States Constitution, she is the oldest commissioned ship afloat in the world. Constitution was one of the six original frigates authorized for construction by the Naval Act of 1794 and was launched in 1797. Joshua Humphreys designed them to be the Navy’s capital ships and so Constitution and her sisters were larger and more heavily armed than the standard frigates of the period.
The modern day role of “Old Ironsides” is that of “ship of state”. The crew of 55 sailors participates in ceremonies, educational programs and special events (including sail drill) while keeping the ship open to visitors year-round and providing free tours. The crew are all active-duty sailors in the Navy and the assignment is considered a special duty. Traditionally, the duty of captain of the vessel is assigned to an active duty Navy commander.
Main Deck Guns USS Constitution
USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world. It was first launched in 1797. Constitution is one of six ships ordered for construction by George Washington to protect America’s growing maritime interests. The ships greatest glory came during the war of 1812 when she defeated four British frigates and earned her the nickname “Old Ironsides,” because cannon balls glanced off her thick hull. The ship was restored in 1927 with contributions from the nation’s school children.
Fore View USS Constitution
USS Constitution under tow
USS Constitution before Resoration (Late 19th Century)
Uss Constitution in Historic Boston Waterfront
USS Constitution Fires Her Guns
HMS Victory in Portsmouth England
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4 responses so far ↓
Charlie // September 15, 2008 at 1:27 am |
But not all at once! Great ship with a great history. We have the HMS Victory but although she’s the oldest commissioned ship in the world, she doesn’t sail anymore, which is a real shame.
It’d be great to see her afloat like the USS Constitution and I think it is amazing that the Constitution still has a proper crew.
Victory wasn’t even used for the 200th anniversary of Trafalgar so will probably never sail again.
Great pictures by the way, especially the last one.
Mike // October 29, 2009 at 8:09 pm |
I agree with you Charlie, too bad they don’t recondition her to operate. Imagine the found memories when your navy made a port of call in Boston Harbor celebrating our 4th of July. Even our “common language” can’t separate good friends & allies…
dummidumbwit // October 29, 2009 at 11:25 pm |
http://news.webshots.com/photo/1166000494015076657jiUQEE
The Eagle does it for the Coast Guard, I was on the Constitution, hell the HMS Victory is in Portsmouth England 2, the Constitution is almost too special to risk loss?
HMS Victory in Portsmouth England « Dummidumbwit’s Weblog // October 29, 2009 at 11:36 pm |
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