Page Updated: January 18, 2024
USS Constitution
USS Constitution - Boston MA
The oldest warship still afloat, USS Constitution - a.k.a. “Old Ironsides” - launched in 1797. After years of faithful service, and after several bouts of being decommissioned and subsequently saved by the American people, the beloved Frigate was placed on permanent commission in 1941 and later placed under the stewardship of the United States Navy.
Today, USS Constitution is part of Boston National Historical Park and hosts half a million visitors annually. Officers and crew walk the southern pitch pine decks daily, greeting visitors, answering questions, and providing facts about the symbol of America’s indomitable spirit.
We’ve toured a number of ships over the years. This was by far the most exciting for us both. Lee had a USS Constitution model as a kid. For me it was the historical significance to our country.
Walking onto USS Constitution, visitors get up close and personal with key features of the ship, including her capstan, her 3 impressive white pine masts, and a little of the 40 miles of rope it takes to sail the ship.
Spar Deck
Interpretive signs are located in places of interest and in some cases may provide you with stuff you might not want to know!
The Gun deck showcases the Frigates many cannons. Each cannon had a name plate above it, which I thought was interesting. Names like Prudence, Bunker Hill, and my personal favorite, Yankee Protection.
Gun Deck
Berth Deck
The Berth Deck has low clearance and was devoted to the sleeping quarters. In addition to the officers quarters and steerage quarters, the deck was designed to hang 251 hammocks. The crew is split into two watches. One watch sails while the other sleeps.
The remaining two decks are off limits to visitors; the Orlop Deck and Main Hold. Historically, these decks stored extra sails, tar, paint, lumber, coal and enough food water to endure months at sea.
Orlop Deck and Main Hold
Structurally, it’s where diagonal riders were installed. This design helps strengthen the ships hull and prevents the keel from bending and/or snapping under the weight of the ship and its heavy cannons.
If you’re a history lover, a ship lover, or just inquisitive of what sailors endured back in the day, USS Constitution is an appropriate place to let your imagination fly. The restoration work completed over the years has extended the life of this floating piece of American history and it’s incredible.
I’ve read only 10-15% of the ship is original. Given she’s 200+ years old, seen war, and spends her life in the salty sea, I’d say that’s remarkable.
-b&b
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