Boston locals and visitors alike may notice that the harbor is a little emptier than usual this month. For the first time in two decades, the USS Constitution left the water to undergo restoration at a dry dock of the Charlestown Navy Yard.
Restoring Old Ironsides
Fondly known by its nickname, "Old Ironsides," the USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned warship in the U.S. Navy. According to the Naval History and Heritage Command, the ship first came to fame during the War of 1812, when it helped the young nation become recognized as a world-class maritime power.
Of the original six frigates commissioned by Congress for the U.S. Navy, it is the only one that still remains. Manned by active-duty officers and crew, today the mission of the USS Constitution is to educate the public about the Navy and its role in the U.S.
Usually found afloat at Pier 1 of the Charlestown Navy Yard, the ship will be dry docked for about three years during the course of the restoration project. The transition occurred during the night of May 18, when the Constitution was safely transitioned from the water of the harbor to the dry dock. The project is part of regular maintenance done to maintain the ship.
"There's been no damage to the ship," Navy Commander Paul J. Brawley told The Boston Globe. "This is done every 15 to 20 years."
Available health care options make sure vets are taken care of after service, no dry dock required.
According to The Boston Globe, the main focus of the restoration is to replace 3,400 copper sheets on the hull. The metal layers protect the ship's hull below the waterline. The sheets are currently being stored at the USS Constitution Museum, where visitors can sign the pieces with permanent markers, Brawley told the Globe.
Continuing the legacy
Tourists to Boston who want to see Old Ironsides will not be disappointed. Despite the renovations, visitors can tour the ship Tuesday through Friday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., as well as Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. All Hands, the magazine of the U.S. Navy, reported.
The USS Constitution will be docked in Dry Dock 1 in the Charlestown Navy Yard until the restoration is complete, likely in the fall of 2017.