USS Constitution is scheduled to go underway for its 225th Anniversary on Friday, October 21, at 10 a.m.
Over 140 former crew members will join Old Ironsides’ current crew to celebrate the ship’s historic 225th milestone.
The underway will include a 21-gun salute viewable from Fort Independence on Castle Island at approximately 11:15 a.m. and an additional 17-gun salute as she passes U.S. Coast Guard Sector Boston at approximately 12:15.
USS Constitution’s cruise will be viewable from the Boston Harborwalk, Castle Island, and Charlestown Navy Yard.
The 225th Anniversary Underway begins a year-long celebration of USS Constitution’s 225th year around the sun.
Old Ironsides will open various contests throughout the next year until the ship’s 226th birthday, Oct. 21, 2023.
The contests are scheduled to include essay writing, art, poetry, social media, and more.
Each contest will be posted on USS Constitution’s social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter) with details, and how to enter.
The Museum invites the public to join the festivities at a Birthday Block Party on Saturday, October 22, from 11 am-3 pm.
Family-friendly activities and games will mark the day, including a USS Constitution-themed 9-hole miniature golf course .
Birthday party-goers can also participate in lawn games courtesy of USO New
England, activities run by fellow military branches, and music by the Navy Northeast Band.
The event is free for all ages and no registration is required. More information is available at usscm.org.
USS Constitution is open to free public visitation Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The USS Constitution Museum is open to the public every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
USS Constitution is the world’s oldest commissioned warship afloat, and played a crucial role in the Barbary Wars and the War of 1812, actively defending sea lanes from 1797 to 1855.
The active-duty Sailors stationed aboard USS Constitution provide free tours and offer public visitation as they support the ship’s mission of promoting the Navy’s history and maritime heritage and raising awareness of the importance of a sustained naval presence.
USS Constitution was undefeated in battle and destroyed or captured 33 opponents.
The ship earned the nickname of Old Ironsides during the War of 1812 when British cannonballs were seen bouncing off the ship’s wooden hull.