USS Constitution Museum

06/22/2026

. The 1812 Overture. Fireworks.
And "Old Ironsides" firing across Boston Harbor.
Independence Day in Boston is almost here.
Who’s ready? 🇺🇸

06/22/2026

in 1812, the Connecticut Mirror announced that the United States had declared war on Great Britain.

The decision was deeply divided. British impressment and trade restrictions pushed the nation toward conflict, but many New Englanders feared war would devastate the maritime industries that sustained their region.

This newspaper captures a moment of uncertainty at the beginning of the War of 1812.

06/21/2026

Excited to see USS Constitution ready for the Parade of Sail on July 11th. But first up: Independence Day! 🇺🇸

06/19/2026

Explore the Small Ships. Now on view for a limited engagement, "Small Ships" is a companion exhibition to "Exploring Old Ironsides," featuring select ship models by the USS Constitution Model Shipwright Guild.

These finely crafted models showcase the artistry, precision, and detail of ship design, inviting visitors to experience maritime craftsmanship on an intimate scale. ⚓

06/19/2026

06/18/2026

Exciting times in Boston... and "Old Ironsides" is ready for the moment!

BOSTON (WHDH) - Executives and Massachusetts law enforcement are looking ahead to the next big event coming to Boston – Sail Boston is returning toRead More

06/18/2026

We’re thrilled to partner with American Ancestors for a special event exploring the great Age of Sail.
Author Eric Jay Dolin, praised by The Washington Post as an “expert literary steersman,” will share the tragic and gripping story of the American whaleship Mentor and its brave crew, shipwrecked and held captive in an unknown land.

Moderated by USS Constitution Museum Life Trustee and renowned historian Bill Fowler.

Learn more and register: https://hubs.ly/Q04jK_PN0

06/18/2026

Yesterday, “Old Ironsides” took to Boston Harbor to commemorate the Battle of Bunker Hill.
We’re proud to share the stories of USS CONSTITUTION, America’s Ship of State and the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world, which has graced this harbor for more than 228 years and continues to connect us to the courage, service, and ideals that shaped our nation.

From Bunker Hill to Boston Harbor, this history still sails. Next Appearance: July 4th. Who’s ready? 🇺🇸

Plan to join us to see it in person and explore the stories of America's Ship of State: usscm.org/plan-your-visit/

06/18/2026

On this day in 1775, the Battle of Bunker Hill left a lasting mark on Charlestown, Boston, and the nation.

Decades later, on Bunker Hill Day in 1862, Samuel Allen of Cambridge reflected on the battle and on America’s victories at sea, writing:

“In that little group of sea-warriors stood first & foremost the Frigate ‘Constitution’.”

For generations, USS CONSTITUTION has been part of this day’s remembrance, present in Boston Harbor within sight of Charlestown and the Bunker Hill Monument.

Images: Watercolor by Sergio Roffo, 1987. USS Constitution Museum Collection. © Sergio Roffo.
Letter from Samuel A. Allen to John McCarty, June 17, 1862. USS Constitution Museum Collection.

06/17/2026

Happy 617 Day, Boston.
Today, “Old Ironsides” took to the harbor to commemorate the Battle of Bunker Hill and honor the bravery that helped shape this city’s fight for freedom. From Bunker Hill to Boston Harbor, courage is part of who we are. 🇺🇸