USS Constellation

History: USS Constellation, built at the Gosport yard in Portsmouth, Virginia, in 1854, was the flagship of the anti-slave trade African Squadron when the Civil War began in April 1861. In May, it made one of its first captures for the Union when it took the slaver Triton of Charleston, South Carolina. Later, Constellation was ordered to the Mediterranean where it carried out several missions, including protecting American commerce from Confederate raiders. It is important to remember that naval vessels such as this served a significant role in actively blockading Southern coastlines, patrolling for commerce raiders, and hindering trade among the Confederacy during the war.

More to Explore: This historic ship is permanently anchored in the Baltimore harbor, where visitors can experience first-hand the activities and daily life of sailors who defended American waters. Immersive tours, programs and a self-guided audio tour all add up to fun, family outing. The Inner Harbor also offers a wide variety of waterfront shopping, dining, and entertainment. Get out on the water and take a tour on one of the many excursion boats, or take a walk along the harbor. The National Aquarium, Port Discovery, Maryland Science Center, American Visionary Arts Museum, Power Plant Live! and Harborplace are some of the most popular attractions within the area.

Photo Credits:

1. “USS Constellation at Naples, 1862.” Courtesy of USS Constellation Museum.
2. “Capt. Henry S. Stellwagen, Commanding Officer, USS Constellation, 1863-1865.” Courtesy of U.S. Navy.
3. “Aspinwall Fuller aboard USS New Hampshire, ca. 1864.” Courtesy of U.S. Navy.