About The Oldest Vessel In America
The oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world today
A vessel is a watercraft designed to travel on or through water, including any craft that can float and carry people, cargo, or equipment across water — from small boats to massive ships.
The USS Constitution, also known as "Old Ironsides," located in Boston, Massachusetts is the oldest active vessel still afloat in the world. The U.S. National Park Service describes it as the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world today. The United States Navy defines it as the world's oldest commissioned warship afloat. The U.S. Naval Institute recognizes it as oldest commissioned ship afloat in the world.
Built in Boston and launched in 1797, the USS Constitution stands as one of America’s most treasured maritime landmarks at Boston’s historic Charlestown Navy Yard. The ship measures 305 feet (93 meters) in overall length—207 feet (63.1 meters) from billet head to taffrail—and 175 feet (53.3 meters) at the waterline. From the spar (upper) deck to the top of the mainmast, it rises 172 feet (54.4 meters) and has an approximate weight of 1,900 tons.
The ship's construction was authorized by the Naval Act of 1794, designed as one of six original frigates to protect American merchant vessels from piracy and foreign interference. Her builders used live oak from Georgia, which proved exceptionally durable and contributed to her remarkable longevity.
Over its career, the ship participated in 42 battles without a loss. It served with distinction in the Quasi-War with France and the Barbary Wars, but it was during the War of 1812 that she truly made her mark on history.
Her victories over HMS Guerriere, HMS Java, and other British warships helped establish American naval supremacy and boosted national morale during a challenging period. During the War of 1812, it earned its nickname "Old Ironsides" when British cannonballs bounced off its live oak hull during a battle with the HMS Guerriere off Nova Scotia in August 1812, a moment that cemented its legendary status.
The ship was one of six original frigates authorized by the Naval Act of 1794, designed by Joshua Humphreys to be larger and more heavily armed than standard frigates of the era, reflecting the young nation's need for robust naval defense.
Named by President George Washington in honor of the U.S. Constitution document, it symbolizes the enduring strength and resilience of American ideals, a connection highlighted in its ongoing role as a commissioned vessel with an active-duty Navy crew.
The ship undergoes periodic maintenance and restoration to preserve her for future generations. She occasionally sails under her own power, demonstrating that this nearly 230-year-old vessel remains a living piece of history rather than merely a static museum display.
The USS Constitution's historical significance is deeply rooted in its service during key conflicts. It remains both a training and ceremonial ship for the Navy, as well as an educational experience for visitors, making her unique among historic vessels. Naval officers and crew still serve aboard the ship today and visitors can hear the ship's cannon fire daily at 8 am and sunset.
Today it remains a commissioned ship, with only about 10–15 percent of its original timber—including the lower futtocks, keel and deadwood—still intact, thanks to the meticulous maintenance by the Naval History and Heritage Command’s Detachment Boston (located in Building 24 at the Charlestown Navy Yard).