10/13/2026
Happy Birthday Navy!
The USS Constitution—famously nicknamed "Old Ironsides"—is a three-masted wooden heavy frigate of the United States Navy. Launched in 1797, she is the world's oldest commissioned warship still afloat.
During her famous battle against the British frigate HMS Guerriere on August 19, 1812, American sailors observed 18-pounder British cannonballs bouncing harmlessly off Constitution's thick live-oak hull. A crew member reportedly shouted, "Huzza, her sides are made of iron!", giving birth to her enduring nickname.
Service History Highlights
Quasi-War (1798–1800): Defended American merchant shipping against French privateers in the West Indies.
First Barbary War (1801–1805): Served as flagship for Commodore Edward Preble during blockades and bombardments of Tripoli.
War of 1812: Achieved iconic single-ship battle victories over HMS Guerriere, HMS Java, HMS Cyane, and HMS Levant, remaining undefeated in combat (44–0 record).
Civil War (1861–1865): Used as a training ship for the United States Naval Academy after being relocated to Newport, Rhode Island.
Present Day Status
Location: Berth 14 at the historic Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston, Massachusetts (part of Boston National Historical Park).
Mission: Serves as a museum ship and educational flagship for the U.S. Navy, crewed active-duty Navy officers and sailors who conduct tours, ceremonial sails, and public outreach.
