Old Ironsides Across the Nation January 31, 2009

Throughout the weekend, visitors can participate in free special activities. Talk with active-duty U.S. Navy Sailors from USS Constitution who perform hourly demonstrations of the teamwork required to fire a cannon during battle, using a life-size replica gun deck and long gun. USS Constitution Museum staff will discuss what life was like aboard ship over 200 years ago as visitors examine samples of objects used at sea in the age of sail. Family-friendly activities include knot-tying, reading signal flags, dress-up like a crewmember aboard Constitution, and fun hands-on interactives about life aboard at sea in the 1800s. Meet skilled craftsmen from the Naval History & Heritage Command Detachment Boston who maintain the historic warship, and etch your name on a copper sheet to be installed on Constitution's hull during a future restoration.