USS Constitution

The USS Constitution is the oldest ship in the United States' Navy. The Navy's history shows Old Ironsides was commissioned in 1798. Her initial patrols were along the US coast. In 1803 she became flagship of the Mediterranean Squadron. Her next tour of duty was as flagship of the North Atlantic Squadron (1809). Between 1821 and 1844, Old Ironsides carried out several patrols as flagship of the Mediterranean and South Pacific Squadrons. At present, Old Ironsides serves as a training vessel - a role she has performed a number of times throughout her more than 200 year career. USS Constitution captured 9 British warships in her illustrious career.

Naval Registry Entry

Builder: Hartt's Shipyard

Award Date: 1 Mar 1794

Keel Date: 1 Nov 1794

                        Launch Date: 21 Oct 1797

                       Overall Length: 204 ft

                       Extreme Beam: 45 ft

                       Maximum Navigational Draft: 23 ft

                       Displacement: 2200 ton

                       Hull Material: Wood

                       Propulsion: Sail

                       Officers: 12

Enlisted: 450