In the War of 1812, in a fierce battle with the HMS Guerriere, a British sailor sees one of their cannon shot bounce off the hull of the Constitution and reportedly shouts, "Huzzah!", "Her sides are made of iron!" - and so was born the nickname - "OLD IRONSIDES". This suburb model was presented to the Museum by Frank J. O'Donnell, formerly Atlantic Coast Director, Maritime Administration.
The model took over two years to make by a highly skilled model shipwright.
Once almost lost to the scrap heap, the Conny, as she is affectionately known, has been fully restored and is under the command of the US Navy. She resides in Boston Harbor, as a fully commissioned US Naval vessel. Click this link to learn more...