The USS Constitution, nicknamed “Old Ironsides”, set sail in Boston Harbor on August 19 for the first time in 15 years.
The 215 year old ship took the brief cruise to commemorate a victory over the British ship Guerriere during battle in the War of 1812. The ship earned the nickname “Old Ironsides” after that battle.
There were 285 passengers on board the Constitution as it reached a maximum speed of 3.1 knots. The ship was commanded by Commander Matt Bonner, the ships 72nd commanding officer.
This marked the first time that the ship had set sail under its own power since turning 200 years old. The Navy periodically tugs the ship into the Boston Harbor for historical displays from time to time.
The USS Constitution is the world’s oldest commissioned navel vessel in the world and was named by President George Washington. The ship is currently stationed in Boston Harbor T Pier 1 of Charlestown Navy Yard at the end of the Freedom Trail. The ship is open daily for free tours.
