THE USS CONSTITUTION MARKS 228 YEARS OF HISTORY
Did you know that more than 200 years ago, a wooden warship was launched that would forever change American military history—and it still floats today? The legendary USS Constitution, built for battle and strength, was launched on October 21, 1797.
Over two centuries later, this remarkable ship still rests proudly in Boston Harbor, a living symbol of American resilience, pride, and the spirit of a young nation.
Let’s step back in time and discover why the USS Constitution remains one of the most extraordinary ships ever built.
USS Constitution: America's Historic Naval Ship
In 1794, the U.S. Congress approved the construction of six powerful frigates—warships designed to protect American merchant vessels from pirates and foreign threats. From this initiative, known as the Naval Act of 1794, the USS Constitution was born.
Built at Edmund Hartt’s shipyard in Boston, Massachusetts, the ship was masterfully designed by Joshua Humphreys to endure both enemy cannon fire and the harshest seas. Constructed from live oak and white oak, two of the toughest woods available, the ship stretched about 204 feet long and carried over 40 cannons—a true powerhouse of her time.
However, building the Constitution was no easy feat. Construction began in 1794 and took about three years to complete. When the ship was finally launched on October 21, 1797, it wasn’t smooth sailing—literally! The ship was so heavy that it got stuck twice before finally sliding into Boston Harbor on the third attempt.
So, how old is the USS Constitution today? You can do the math—she’s over two centuries old and still going strong!
Old Ironsides: USS Constitution's Iconic Nickname
The USS Constitution was now afloat and served as an American warship, ready to defend its flag at any time. The ship first saw action in 1798 during the Quasi-War with France. It was the time when the state protected American ships from French privateers.
Fact: A privateer is a private ship authorized by a government to attack enemy merchant ships during the war.
However, the real showtime for the USS Constitution was during the War of 1812 against Great Britain. So on August 19, 1812, the ship met the British frigate HMS Guerriere, the enemy’s warship.
These ships exchanged heavy fire, but guess what? The USS Constitution’s thick wooden hull easily absorbed the hits. The cannons fired at her bounced off her sides, almost as if she were bulletproof! From that moment, she earned the name “Old Ironsides.”
Okay, now take a guess again, who won the battle? If your answer is the HMS Guerriere, better luck next time! It’s the star of the show, the USS Constitution, almost unharmed.
She defeated several British vessels, proving she was one of the strongest ships in the world.
USS Constitution's Enduring Legacy in Naval History
The USS Constitution refuses to fade. Even after the War of 1812, the ship continued to serve the country. She sailed to the Mediterranean Sea to protect American trade routes from pirates during the Barbary Wars, carried American ambassadors, and conducted goodwill tours.
Of course, she was not always used for battle. By the mid-1800s, she had been converted into a training ship for naval cadets and later became a museum ship.
As naval technology evolved and more modern ships were built, maintaining the Constitution became increasingly difficult and expensive. The Navy saw little reason to keep her, as she no longer fit the strategic needs of the military, which made sense at the time. However, for the American people, the USS Constitution was more than just an old ship; she represented something far greater.
Poet Oliver Wendell Holmes captured this sentiment in his poem “Old Ironsides,” inspired by the ship’s famous nickname. His words rallied public support, and because of this, the Navy decided not to scrap the ship. After all, the USS Constitution remains a living piece of the nation’s identity.
Celebrating 228 Years of USS Constitution History
As we celebrate the anniversary of the USS Constitution’s launch, she continues to inspire pride and respect. She remains one of America’s greatest treasures because of her victories in multiple wars.
At 228 years old today, it is still the world’s oldest commissioned warship afloat. Each year, the Navy honors her birthday with a ceremony to remind us she’s more than a museum piece.
So if you’re in Boston today, go ahead and step aboard the remarkable ship at Boston National Historical Park, Charlestown Navy Yard in Charlestown, Massachusetts. Yes! You can actually step inside it. Just note that walking her decks might feel like you’re traveling back in time, but that is an experience you won’t forget.
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BY ALLISON KIRSCHBAUM
Veteran, Military History & Culture Writer at VeteranLife
Navy Veteran
Allison Kirschbaum is a Navy Veteran and an experienced historian. She has seven years of experience creating compelling digital content across diverse industries, including Military, Defense, History, SaaS, MarTech, FinTech, financial services, insurance, and manufacturing. She brings this expertis...
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Expertise
Allison Kirschbaum is a Navy Veteran and an experienced historian. She has seven years of experience creating compelling digital content across diverse industries, including Military, Defense, History, SaaS, MarTech, FinTech, financial services, insurance, and manufacturing. She brings this expertis...
