USS Constitution, launched in 1797 for the young United States Navy, was one of six powerful frigates designed to protect American trade and outmatch rival frigates. Built in Boston with massive live oak and other timber, she became famous in the War of 1812 by capturing British ships including HMS Guerriere, a victory that inspired the nickname Old Ironsides. Constitution later served in the Mediterranean, Africa, around the world, and as a training and exhibition ship before becoming a museum ship. Still afloat and actively commissioned, she endures in Boston as the world’s oldest commissioned warship and a living link between the early republic and the modern Navy.

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Cambridge, Massachusetts · USA