This year marks the 213th anniversary of the Anglo-American War of 1812. The most famous warship in the conflict was the frigate USS Constitution, also known by her nickname “Old Ironsides.” The sobriquet alludes to the plate armor that protected the ship’s wooden hull from cannon fire.
During the War of 1812, USS Constitution, under the command of Captain Isaac Hull, defeated several British warships. The victories debunked the centuries-old myth that the British Navy was unbeatable.
Celebrating her 228th birthday this year, USS Constitution is berthed at Pier One of the former Charlestown Navy Yard in Massachusetts. She is the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat and currently serves as a museum.