Boston Photo Gallery - USS Constitution

The USS Constitution was built in Boston and launched in 1797, as part of the country's new navy. It remains in commission, making i the oldest ship in the navy. Partnering with the National Park Service, it is open to the public for free tours and there is also a museum next door. During the War of 1812, it defeated 4 British frigates, earning it the nickname "Old Ironsides" as enemy cannonballs could not break the ship's oak hull.