Creating a legend
USS Constitution is remembered and honored as an undefeated champion, victor in a series of battles fought at different times and involving different commanders. In that sense, she has a more universal heritage. Given her string of victories, then, one would logically assume that there was something more than the skill of her several captains on those occasions that contributed to her success -- something involving the physical characteristics of the ship. This volume attempts to provide clues in that regard. It recalls the designer's enlightened philosophy as to what our infant Navy needed in the way of fighting ships. And it delineates the designer's genius in devising an innovative structure that would result in her nickname - "Old Ironsides," and contribute significantly to her continued existence today. This is also the story of her construction, launching, and outfitting - and the events leading to that moment when she first went to sea, beginning a carrer that continues today. "Old Ironsides'" grand tradition include being the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world. --Introduction, page v
Print Book, English, ©1997
Tryon Pub. Co., Chapel Hill, ©1997