| USS Constitution, known as "Old
Ironsides," is a wooden-hulled, three-masted
frigate of the United States Navy docked at the
Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston. Named after the
United States Constitution, she is the oldest
commissioned ship afloat in the world, and is still in
service in the US Navy. The 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". USS Constitution is
today considered the most famous vessel in American
naval history. Her mission is to promote the Navy to
millions of visitors and observers each year. 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 and the assignment is considered special duty
in the Navy. Traditionally, the duty of captain of the
vessel is assigned to an active duty Navy commander.
The USS Constitution (Old Ironsides) is berthed at
Pier 1 of the former Charlestown Navy Yard at one end
of the Boston Freedom
Trail. She is open to the public
year round. However, as a commissioned US Navy ship, a
visit to "Old Ironsides" is subject to Navy
provisions and the fact that she occasionally puts out
to sea. Consult her official website for schedule and
provisions. The private USS Constitution Museum is
nearby, located in a restored shipyard building at the
foot of Pier 2.
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