07/12/2021
Every American seaman received 14 ounces of “bread” per day during the War of 1812. But it wasn’t bread like we know it today. 🍞 Learn about ship's biscuit, or hardtack, in this artifact video!
USS Constitution Museum
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The Museum preserves and shares the stories of "Old Ironsides" and those who shaped her history with exhibits and programs for all ages. The USS Constitution Museum preserves and shares the stories of "Old Ironsides" and those who shaped her history with exhibits and programs for all ages.
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The USS Constitution Museum and the USS Constitution (the Ship) are operated by different organizations. See the Ship's website (http://www.navy.mil/local/constitution/) for the most up-to-date information about the Ship's public visitation hours.
Operating as usual
07/09/2021
Can't visit the Museum in person but still want to "join the crew"? Check out our newest interactive online exhibit, where you can experience the life of a sailor aboard USS Constitution during the War of 1812! ⚓️ jointhecrew.ussconstitutionmuseum.org
Can't visit the Museum in person but still want to "join the crew"? Check out our newest interactive online exhibit, where you can experience the life of a sailor aboard USS Constitution during the War of 1812! ⚓️ jointhecrew.ussconstitutionmuseum.org
07/08/2021
Family Firepower - USS Constitution Museum
💥 Does your family have what it takes to join USS Constitution's crew? Join us for Family Firepower on Sunday, July 18 from 3:00-4:30pm to find out and experience the teamwork behind the Ship's mighty firepower firsthand. Space is limited! Register today. bit.ly/3wrsN3N
Join us on Sunday, July 18 from 3:00 – 4:30pm to experience USS Constitution in a new way– as recruits on her historic gun crew! Participating families will learn about the tools and teamwork required to make USS Constitution a successful warship, both at the Museum and on the Ship with a US Nav...
07/08/2021
Maintaining America's Advantage at Sea: A Conversation with RADM Shoshana Chatfield
Join the USS Constitution Museum and USS Constitution as we welcome RADM Shoshana Chatfield, President of the Naval War College and career naval helicopter pilot, to the Charlestown Navy Yard. This is a unique opportunity to hear from one of our military’s leaders about maintaining a strong Navy and America’s advantage at sea. RADM Chatfield’s remarks will end with a brief question and answer period. Register today to participate virtually and view a livestream of this event for free.
07/07/2021
📣 Last chance to register for this free event tomorrow morning at 8:30am ET! Join us to hear from RADM Shoshana Chatfield, President of the Naval War College, on maintaining America's advantage at sea. bit.ly/3dfik4A
📣 Last chance to register for this free event tomorrow morning at 8:30am ET! Join us to hear from RADM Shoshana Chatfield, President of the Naval War College, on maintaining America's advantage at sea. bit.ly/3dfik4A
07/07/2021
Hot Stuff: Chocolate and the US Navy - USS Constitution Museum
Did you know hot chocolate was a popular breakfast drink among sailors in 1812? ☕️ Learn about chocolate and the U.S. Navy on our blog! bit.ly/3w0POug #WorldChocolateDay #InternationalChocolateDay
Today, Americans often consume chocolate as a snack in solid form, molded into a bar or some bite-sized morsel. But it the eighteenth and early. . .
07/05/2021
Historian's Webinar - July 7 - Battle of the Chesapeake
Join the Daughters of the Cincinnati on Wed, July 7 at 6pm ET for a lively virtual conversation about the Battle of the Chesapeake; it helped secure victory over the British at Yorktown in 1781! Register here by Tues, July 6 (deadline extended): conta.cc/3qmi216.
Webinar - Battle of the Chesapeake June 2021 DAUGHTERS OF THE CINCINNATI 240th Anniversary of the Victory at Yorktown Historian's Webinar BATTLE OF THE CHESAPEAKE Join us on July 7 at 6 pm for a livel
07/04/2021
Happy Independence Day! The Museum is open today from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. ET.
#4thofJuly #July4th #IndependenceDay
Photo Courtesy U.S. Navy
Happy Independence Day! The Museum is open today from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. ET.
#4thofJuly #July4th #IndependenceDay
Photo Courtesy U.S. Navy
07/03/2021
Make and Fire Your Own Cannon
Are you ready to have a blast? Watch Manager of Interpretation & Visitor Services, Jennifer Zanolli, show you how to fire your own 4th of July salute using an old film canister and some Alka-Seltzer® tablets. Printed directions available at bit.ly/3y4z9ay.
07/02/2021
USS Constitution's "Turnaround" Cruises - USS Constitution Museum
USS Constitution is scheduled to get underway in Boston Harbor starting at 10:00am ET on July 4th -- a popular tradition that's been around since the 1970s! 🇺🇸 Learn more about the Ship's long history of "turnaround cruises" on our blog! bit.ly/3qtPjYs
On May 23, 1815, the Washington, D.C. newspaper the National Intelligencer called for the preservation of USS Constitution: “Let us keep ‘Old Ironsides’ at home.. . .
07/01/2021
Celebrate Independence Day in the Charlestown Navy Yard! View the return of an annual tradition - USS Constitution underway in Boston Harbor - and then explore the work required to build and keep the Ship sail ready, from the live-oak in her hull to the active-duty crew that share her history, in the Museum's award-winning exhibits. Set your course and learn more at: bit.ly/2UNBl81
Celebrate Independence Day in the Charlestown Navy Yard! View the return of an annual tradition - USS Constitution underway in Boston Harbor - and then explore the work required to build and keep the Ship sail ready, from the live-oak in her hull to the active-duty crew that share her history, in the Museum's award-winning exhibits. Set your course and learn more at: bit.ly/2UNBl81
06/28/2021
Welcome! You are invited to join a webinar: Maintaining America's Advantage at Sea: A Conversation with RADM Shoshana Chatfield. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the webinar.
Join the Museum and USS Constitution as we welcome RADM Shoshana Chatfield, President of the Naval War College and career naval helicopter pilot, for a free virtual talk on Thursday, July 8 at 8:30am ET. Register now to hear from one of our military’s leaders about maintaining America’s advantage at sea bit.ly/3dfik4A.
Join the USS Constitution Museum and USS Constitution as we welcome RADM Shoshana Chatfield, President of the Naval War College and career naval helicopter pilot, to the Charlestown Navy Yard. This is a unique opportunity to hear from one of our military’s leaders about maintaining a strong Navy a...
06/26/2021
Are you a military family wanting help with your #BlueStarBingo? From picnicking in a park to watching a sunset to visiting a museum, the USS Constitution Museum and #CharlestownNavyYard are here for your summer fun. Download your bingo card today at: bluestarfam.org/bingo/
#BlueStarSummer
Are you a military family wanting help with your #BlueStarBingo? From picnicking in a park to watching a sunset to visiting a museum, the USS Constitution Museum and #CharlestownNavyYard are here for your summer fun. Download your bingo card today at: bluestarfam.org/bingo/
#BlueStarSummer
06/25/2021
Protecting Global Commerce: From USS Constitution to the South China Sea, August 26, 2020
Last August, we invited a panel of experts from Suffolk University, the U.S. Naval War College, and the Fletcher School at Tufts University to discuss USS Constitution‘s history of protecting maritime commerce, and how that legacy is reflected in the deployments of U.S. Navy ships to tense sea lanes around the world today. Watch the discussion on our YouTube channel bit.ly/3qhZBLa
The USS Constitution Museum brought its Public Historian and three experts together for a virtual discussion on USS Constitution‘s history of protecting mari...
06/23/2021
School's Out! - USS Constitution Museum
USS Constitution has worn many hats in its lifetime – warship, receiving ship, goodwill ambassador, and for a time, even a floating museum. But in the late 1850s, with the Naval Academy running out of space, and with the surge of steam vessels phasing out sailing ships, "Old Ironsides" was converted into a floating classroom for sailors to practice sail handling and other practical naval skills. Take a glimpse of Constitution's school days on our blog 🎓 bit.ly/3gPaFfs
The month of June marks the end of the school year for most students in the United States. To commemorate the occasion, we’re sharing a. . .
06/21/2021
It's the first day of summer! ☀️ 🎉 🙌 Visit the Museum and celebrate #NationalSelfieDay by snapping a pic, posting it, and tagging us! 📸
It's the first day of summer! ☀️ 🎉 🙌 Visit the Museum and celebrate #NationalSelfieDay by snapping a pic, posting it, and tagging us! 📸
06/20/2021
In October 1791, 18-year-old Isaac Hull sat down to write a letter to his father, Joseph. In the letter, the young sailor and future USS Constitution captain is anxious for news from home and equally anxious to make his family proud. Visit our blog to read the full transcript ✍️ bit.ly/3grl2WN #FathersDay
06/19/2021
Slavery and USS Constitution - USS Constitution Museum
This #Juneteenth, we remember the enslaved people who harvested the live oak timbers that gave "Old Ironsides" its strength and helped make the Ship's construction possible. We remain committed to researching the intertwined histories of slavery and the creation of the early U.S. Navy. bit.ly/3hHctWv
Enslaved workers harvested some of the most important timbers that make up the hull of USS Constitution. On the densely wooded coastal islands of Georgia,. . .
06/18/2021
usscmg.org
Our friends at the USS Constitution Model Shipwright Guild are hosting a Virtual Model Show this year! The annual Model Show is usually presented in person at the USS Constitution Museum each winter, and this year they are bringing it to you online. Visit their website to explore a collection of exquisitely handcrafted models of all types.
06/18/2021
Do you have what it takes to be a sailor in the War of 1812? Play "A Sailor's Life for Me," a dynamic virtual game and find out! Join the crew at aslfm.org.
Do you have what it takes to be a sailor in the War of 1812? Play "A Sailor's Life for Me," a dynamic virtual game and find out! Join the crew at aslfm.org.
06/16/2021
Journey through 200+ years of naval history in our engaging, award-winning galleries. The Museum is open daily from 10:00am-5:00pm. We can't wait to see you! Plan your visit today: bit.ly/3uYAzBp
Journey through 200+ years of naval history in our engaging, award-winning galleries. The Museum is open daily from 10:00am-5:00pm. We can't wait to see you! Plan your visit today: bit.ly/3uYAzBp
![Happy #FlagDay! 🇺🇸 [U.S. Navy Photo]](https://img5.gluseum.com/226/062/10159689042260625.jpg)
06/14/2021
Happy #FlagDay! 🇺🇸 [U.S. Navy Photo]
Happy #FlagDay! 🇺🇸 [U.S. Navy Photo]
06/13/2021
Our #Charlestown pride is on full display as we #BringOutTheBunting in celebration of Bunker Hill Day. Visit the Museum today and we will help Charlestown residents #PaintTheTown with a FREE American Flag temporary tattoo! #BunkerHillorBust
Our #Charlestown pride is on full display as we #BringOutTheBunting in celebration of Bunker Hill Day. Visit the Museum today and we will help Charlestown residents #PaintTheTown with a FREE American Flag temporary tattoo! #BunkerHillorBust
06/12/2021
A Voyage Through History: Getting the Navy Underway
The early United States Navy, with its inexperienced captains and crew, was off to a shaky start in the late 1790s. In this episode of A Voyage Through History, Public Historian Carl Herzog takes a closer look at the Navy's first years, from patrolling the American coastline, to seizing enemy vessels, to establishing squadrons to protect and convoy American merchant ships. Watch on our YouTube Channel ▶️ bit.ly/3xcLRn7
The early United States Navy, with its inexperienced captains and crew, was off to a shaky start in the late 1790s. In this video, USS Constitution Museum Pu...
06/11/2021
As USS Constitution goes underway to honor healthcare workers today, we join our Navy partners in recognizing these selfless caregivers and first responders who have served tirelessly throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Thank you for all you do for our communities.
As USS Constitution goes underway to honor healthcare workers today, we join our Navy partners in recognizing these selfless caregivers and first responders who have served tirelessly throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Thank you for all you do for our communities.
06/10/2021
Power is restored and the Museum will be open from 10:00am-5:00pm today. Come by to cool off and explore our galleries!
06/09/2021
The Museum has closed for the day due to a power outage. Visit our Virtual Museum at usscm.org!
06/09/2021
The school year is almost over, but there is always time for fun and learning! 🙌 We have engaging virtual field trips for school and camp groups. Learn more at usscm.org/schools-youth
The school year is almost over, but there is always time for fun and learning! 🙌 We have engaging virtual field trips for school and camp groups. Learn more at usscm.org/schools-youth
06/07/2021
Capsizing the Grog Tub: Busting a Favorite Myth - USS Constitution Museum
Have you heard the story claiming that USS Constitution's crew consumed more than 187,700 gallons of spirits and not a drop of water during a 6-month voyage in 1798? 🧐 We're not sure how the story started, but we can assure you it is false! On our blog, we break down the impossibility of this tall tale 👉 bit.ly/3v0JbY8 #mythbusting
It is a story that seems to have made the rounds of everyone’s e-mail inbox and appeared on countless listserves. It never dies, but reappears. . .
06/05/2021
Knot shore what to get your dad for #FathersDay? Find the perfect gift in our Museum Store! We have boatloads of gifts he'll love, like pens made from real "Old Ironsides" wood, ship models, and Constitution-themed apparel. Shop in-store or online at bit.ly/3uhMmu8.
Knot shore what to get your dad for #FathersDay? Find the perfect gift in our Museum Store! We have boatloads of gifts he'll love, like pens made from real "Old Ironsides" wood, ship models, and Constitution-themed apparel. Shop in-store or online at bit.ly/3uhMmu8.
06/04/2021
Tie a Knot
Are you ready to learn the ropes? Follow along with Education Coordinator, Shannon Skilling, as she shows you some of the most common knots used aboard "Old Ironsides."
06/03/2021
📣 New online: Explore 13 highlights from the James Sever Collection! This is a rare and significant collection of records related to the construction, launch, outfitting, and initial manning of the U.S. Navy's original six frigates, as well as the conduct of the U.S. Navy during the Quasi-War with France from 1798-1801. Discover the collection at bit.ly/3p8whpM
📣 New online: Explore 13 highlights from the James Sever Collection! This is a rare and significant collection of records related to the construction, launch, outfitting, and initial manning of the U.S. Navy's original six frigates, as well as the conduct of the U.S. Navy during the Quasi-War with France from 1798-1801. Discover the collection at bit.ly/3p8whpM
06/02/2021
Last September, the U.S. Navy laid the keel for the future USNS Harvey Milk (T-AO 206), the Navy’s second John Lewis-class fleet replenishment oiler. Harvey Milk, a Navy veteran who served during the Korean War, was a civil and human rights leader and the first openly gay elected official in California. Learn more at bit.ly/3uJrDj8 #PrideMonth [U.S. Navy photo illustration]
Last September, the U.S. Navy laid the keel for the future USNS Harvey Milk (T-AO 206), the Navy’s second John Lewis-class fleet replenishment oiler. Harvey Milk, a Navy veteran who served during the Korean War, was a civil and human rights leader and the first openly gay elected official in California. Learn more at bit.ly/3uJrDj8 #PrideMonth [U.S. Navy photo illustration]
Address
22 1st Ave.
Boston, MA
02129
10 minute walk from North Station On the MBTA Water Shuttle and Bus Route #93 Near Sullivan Square station
Opening Hours
| Monday | 10am - 5pm |
| Tuesday | 10am - 5pm |
| Wednesday | 10am - 5pm |
| Thursday | 10am - 5pm |
| Friday | 10am - 5pm |
| Saturday | 10am - 5pm |
| Sunday | 10am - 5pm |
Telephone
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Videos
Maintaining America's Advantage at Sea: A Conversation with RADM Shoshana Chatfield
Make and Fire Your Own Cannon
Tie a Knot
Poppy Flower
At the Helm: Captains of Constitution
USS Constitution's Crew: What does "thank you for your service" mean to you?
Make a Keepsake Silhouette
USS Constitution's Crew: Why did you join the Navy?
Tin Foil Trophy
Sails, Flags, and Flying Things of USS Constitution
Bald Eagle Encounter
"Old Ironsides" Poem
Rad Women of USS Constitution
1-Minute Artifact Video: Portrait of Abigail Chew
Why I Joined the Navy - Cesilia Aleman Hernandez
Paper Officer's Hat
Meet a LEGO® Master Model Builder
USS Constitution LEGO® Maritime Festival Tour
Scrimshaw Craft
Historian Live: Ship Models
Paper Telescope
Peter Turner's Watch, Quarter & Station Bill
Tie a Knot
Tin Foil Boat Challenge
International Sailors for the Nation’s Ship
Anatomy of Victory Tour
Cook a Ship's Biscuit
Paper Marine's Hat
Shortcuts
Category
Our Story
At the USS Constitution Museum we are dedicated to engaging all ages in the story of “Old Ironsides” to spark excitement about maritime heritage, naval service, and the American experience. We ensure that the stories of USS Constitution and those who shaped her history are never forgotten, always remain relevant, and inspire as many people as possible. We provide an environment where inter-generational groups seeking an enjoyable and educational experience can have fun while learning and exploring history together. Located in the historic Charlestown Navy Yard, the USS Constitution Museum is a proud partner the National Parks of Boston, Naval History & Heritage Command, and USS Constitution.
For more information, visit us at usscm.org.
Nearby museums
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Charlestown Navy Yard (Boston National Historical Park)
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Northeast Museum Services Center
Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown -
02129
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Charlestown Historical Society
43 Monument Sq, Charlestown -
Old North Church & Historic Site
193 Salem St -
100 Legends Way
-
19 North Sq
-
150 Staniford St
-
New England Holocaust Memorial
126 High Street -
1 Science Park
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1 Science Park
-
The Printing Office of Edes & Gill
Faneuil Hall -
141 Cambridge St
-
Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Ma
4 Faneuil Hall Sq
Other History Museums in Boston
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344 Congress St -
141 Cambridge St
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206 Washington St
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308 Congress St
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29 Stanhope St
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33 Shirley St
-
46 Joy Street
-
1 Washington Mall
-
19 North Sq
-
150 Staniford St
Comments
We have much to be thankful for this July 4, 2021, never forgetting, however, that we have also lost much. Take a moment to reflect on the past few years, to appreciate what we have as a people and a nation. Remember to thank a serviceman and servicewoman for their service. And have a wonderful truly American Holiday! HAPPY 4TH! HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!
USS CONSTITUTION SONNET JULY 4, 2021
OLD---IF HISTORY WERE THE ONLY WAY
TO MEASURE MY WORTH. MUCH HAVE I PONDERED
AS HE--AND SHE--NEW CITIZENS THIS DAY
STAND ON MY DECK. TIME HAS BEEN A WONDER
AND A FRIEND TO ME. GENERATIONS HAVE
PASSED THE TORCH AND KEPT THE PROMISE TO KEEP,
ME SAFE AND SECURE. LET THE BANNERS WAVE!
I DO NOT FORGET THOSE NOW GONE. I WEEP
SILENTLY FOR OUR LOSS. MY COUNTRYMEN
COME YET. MY HULL WITHOUT. MY DECKS WITHIN.
OLD? NAY! FOREVER YOUNG! AND YOUNG AGAIN!
COME AND CELEBRATE WITH ME ONCE AGAIN!
A SHIP WILL LIVE WHEN PEOPLE KNOW HER WORTH.
AND SO SHE LIVES BECAUSE OF NOBLE BIRTH.
Works of faith,hope and love, www.faopal.hu
With the re-opening of the museum and the USS CONSTITUTION ever ready to welcome you aboard and ever ready to tell you her story I submit this sonnet which tells of the night in 2010 I found myself all alone on the deck of the ship for some 40 minutes. Time and space merged, blocking out all distractions, leaving me alone with this awesome ship. Stop, sit, if you can. and listen.....she will talk to you, too.
USS CONSTITUTION . SONNET 2010
Tonight at summer solstice, after eight,
Still light enough, before the moon's full glow,
A solitary figure hesitates.
She does not venture to the decks below.
My colors struck, a quiet time for me.
The last watch of the day has gone ashore.
She turns around, but does she really see?
O, listen! I can tell you so much more!
Come closer. You can sense me in your touch,
Don't falter. You can hear me in the wind.
Eyes opened. You can understand so much.
Breathe deeply. You will know the life within.
A ship will live when people know her worth.
And so she lives because of noble birth.
USS CONSTITUTION Sonnet 1865
A generation lost. A Union saved.
Seven hundred thousand men---or just one.
Bring out the Stars and Stripes---it must be waved.
Begin to heal for warring is now done.
Yet shadows dim the lilacs as they bloom
And April's fragrances have lost their breath.
My Captain has been laid inside his tomb.
His spirit, though, will live beyond his death.
Do not despair. Look to. No pain nor tears.
My Captain's on the bridge and there he'll stay.
They've kept me safe throughout these four long years.
One last salute and we'll be underway.
A ship will live when people know her worth.
And so she lives because of noble birth.
USS CONSTITUTION . Sonnet April, 1775
Boston, Massachusetts
What is it about Boston that rattles
the British so? The sister colonies
look toward the New World hub as it battles
Red Coat muskets in hostilities
that started that fateful night in April.
No hiding behind Indian faces
When the riders spread the warning that will
send militia fighters to their places---
Two lanterns in Old North, the golden lights
that will illuminate the way to more
than they could ever imagine. The night
air warms the spirit as never before.
With thoughts unspoken life is kept in tact.
Un-loosened words give men the strength to act.
You ought to do a video on the embroidery that the Constitution and other sailors did in their spare time.
Once again, we remember a horrific time in our country's history when people, globally, faced annihilation. Ordinary men and women, our fathers and mothers, grandfathers, aunts and uncles, brothers and sisters, heard the bell and answered the call--- and rose to greatness. "....we few...we happy few...we band of brothers". They are in their late 90's and they will not be forgotten. Thank you. Thank you for your service.
USS CONSTITUTION . SONNET DECEMBER 7, 1941
Look toward the east and watch the rising sun.
Beware the iron fist hid in the glove.
And there's a third whose powers long begun.
The Axis hawks pretending to be doves.
Mark well the course. The years of peace now gone.
The bugles called to arms. The ship bells peal.
A harbor scorched one bloody Sunday morn.
A President's resolved forged out of steel.
And once again she filled a nation's need,
Commissioned 'fore another day would last.
The frigate that the Navy asked to lead
A county's future sailed from out the past.
A ship will live when people know her worth.
And so she lives because of noble birth.
It is difficult to believe that sixty years have passed since President John F. Kennedy spoke of passing the torch to a new generation. Forty years earlier Lieut-Col. John McCrae, a Canadian soldier, who wrote of that torch. After four years of service on the western front fighting the dark forces of evil that had spread through Europe, he died in France, January, 1918. We are so grateful for all the men and women in our armed forces who are carrying the torch today. And we are forever thankful for all those who led the way. We thank you for service.
USS CONSTITUTION . SONNET 1919. VETERANS' DAY
A President wrote of the war. Do not
Forget the sacrifices dearly made
By your country's sons, for all those who fought,
Those who are with us---and those who are dead.
In years of peace to come, you might not know
Their names or faces----or resting places.
Think of their valor in fighting the foe.
Think of the Furies---and blessed Graces.
The poet wrote of singing larks and guns
And failing hands that throw the torch to you.
And breaking faith with them. Take heed, O sons.
In Flanders Fields he told you what to do.
A ship will live when people know her worth.
And so she lives because of noble birt
While working as an electrician at the Boston Naval Shipyard, my husband was honored to have worked on the USS Constitution replacing and upgrading her wiring. He just passed away two weeks ago and our family was so proud to have her sailors serve as honor guards at his graveside ceremony. God bless, and Happy Birthday Old Ironsides!
Edward G Durivage giving a tour May 1963
USS Constitution at 1:1250 sscale
Heinz-Peter Weiss (Germany) makes limited edition miniature paper models of historic ship at the scale of 1:250 ( See also Society of Miniature Ship Collectorshttp://smsc-home.org/index.html )
USS Constitution at 1:1250 sscale
Heinz-Peter Weiss (Germany) makes limited edition miniature paper models of historic ship at the scale of 1:250 ( See also Society of Miniature Ship Collectorshttp://smsc-home.org/index.html )