U.S.S. Constellation, Baltimore

The USS Constellation is a 19th-century naval vessel moored at Constellation Dock in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Built between 1853 and 1855, it is the last sail-only warship constructed by the United States Navy and the last intact naval ship from the Civil War era. Parts of its construction incorporated salvaged materials from an earlier frigate of the same name. Over time, the ship served in multiple roles, including as a flagship in the Mediterranean and later as a training vessel.

From the outside, the ship’s tall masts, dense rigging, and wooden hull stand out. Rows of cannons line the gun deck, and the complexity of the rope systems hints at the coordination required to operate the sails. As you step aboard, the scale of the vessel becomes more apparent, with narrow passageways and steep ladders offering insight into the confined conditions sailors experienced.

The interior is arranged across four restored decks, presented to reflect the ship’s appearance during its Civil War service. The gun deck showcases its armament, while lower levels reveal sleeping quarters, storage areas, and officer spaces. Exhibits include thousands of artifacts, primarily documents and photographs, as well as personal items donated by descendants of former crew members.

Today, the USS Constellation operates as part of the Historic Ships in Baltimore, alongside other vessels and maritime structures in the harbor.