Tuesday, January 08, 2008

The USS Constellation

Photo courtesy: Marion Watchinski

The majority of sea faring business is still alive and thriving in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, but few tourists see that part of Baltimore. Instead, they see water taxis buzzing back and forth as they ferry passengers to the many attractions such as the National Aquarium or the Baltimore Maritime Museum.

The USS Constellation, a restored 1854 wooden navel warship is docked in the harbor and open for tours. There is a special tour for children who can participate interactively in a program designed especially for them. By doing so, they can see how young boys, some at the tender age of 11 years, were expected to help "man" the ship over one hundred and fifty years ago.

Hundreds of thousands of visitors have enjoyed this special trip back in time to actually see the limited conditions where sailors had to sleep, eat and perform the daily duties of working on a warship.

Not only is The USS Constellation a floating museum, it is also available for weddings and other important events. For more information, go to: www.ussconstellation.org