 In the winter of March, 1794, the United States government gave its final approval for construction of 6 naval vessels to protect the young nation from being taken over by hostile British and French forces. One of the most famous of these vessels was called the USS Constitution. From 1794 - 1797, Old Ironsides was built. It took more than 1,500 trees from along the eastern sea coast. The iron was casted from Rhode Island. According to logs, a British sailor was heard hollering the USS Constitution's sides were made of iron. Sailors of the USS Constitution had witnessed an iron cannon ball strike her sides. The HMS Guerriere was sunk by Old Ironsides. Hence her famous nicknamed was formed. From 1797 to 1821 Old Ironsides saw battle several times and in 1821 was docked for costly repairs and was a show ship from 1822 till 1860. In 1860, she was commissioned once again to defend her fleet. However, instead of seeing battle this gallant war ship stayed in ship yards and was used as a training vessel until the 1900's In 1925, the United States Congress set aside monies to have her repaired. Even children donated their monies to see the majestic ship repaired. In the summer of 1998, the USS Constitution was honored in her part of the stabilization of American History. Naval fleets from all over the world came to Boston to pay tribute to the USS Constitution. The wonderful ship now rests in the Boston Harbor. She is truly part of what America stands for! | 
