Black Sailors During the War of 1812

Over the past 15 years, the Museum has researched USS Constitution's 1812 crew and their families. These efforts have uncovered the stories of Black Americans like ordinary seaman Jesse Williams. Williams was born free in Pennsylvania and joined USS Constitution's crew in 1812. He was the sponger on the number 3 long gun for Constitution's engagements with HMS Guerierre and HMS Java. Read more of his story, including how he was later awarded a silver medal for his service in the Battle of Lake Erie, in his crew profile.

For further learning, read Black Sailors During the War of 1812. This Museum publication surveys the status of life for free Black Americans on shore and sheds light on why some may have found seafaring an attractive opportunity.

In the next few days, we will be highlighting the integral contributions of Black Americans to USS Constitution on our social media pages. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to learn more about these stories and efforts to continue our research.

Mass Humanities Supports New Research

USS Constitution's live oak framing contributes to the Ship's "iron" strength. At the turn of the 18th century, this timber was harvested in the dense coastal swamps of Georgia, Florida and the Gulf Coast, making it difficult to access and cut the trees, but even harder to remove the timber. Regional plantation owners hired out enslaved people to the U.S. Navy to cultivate the timber in these areas. With grant funding from Mass Humanities, we will soon begin an extensive research project to uncover and interpret the intertwined histories of slavery and the creation of the early United States Navy.

Supporting the Community

The USS Constitution Museum is dedicated to researching and telling the stories of all Americans through the lens of USS Constitution – including sharing and honoring the contributions of Black Americans. We also celebrate the important work that many Boston nonprofits are doing to support the Black community. Our friends at Boston Magazine have put together a list of organizations furthering the call for equality and equity in Boston and beyond. This week we encourage you to learn more about the organizations listed and support the critical work they are doing for our community.

Support the Museum Annual Fund

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