This Week in "Old Ironsides" History

This Tuesday marks the 208th anniversary of USS Constitution's engagement with HMS Java on December 29, 1812. We're remembering this remarkable moment in the Ship's history throughout the week. Learn how crew continued to steer the Ship after a broadside from Java on our website and explore related objects in our collection, including a diagram of the battle drawn by Constitution's master's mate. And stay tuned: later this week, we'll have a new episode of Historian at Home about the Java battle. 

Celebrate Java with...Java!

Celebrate the anniversary of USS Constitution's 1812 engagement with HMS Java with a mug from the online Museum Store! Enjoy your coffee (or other hot beverages) this winter in one of our nautical mugs. Visit the online Museum Store today!

Family Firepower Program on December 29

Ready for a blast this School Vacation Week? Join us Tuesday, December 29 at 3:30 PM ET for our virtual Family Firepower program. With interactive activities and virtual tours of "Old Ironsides" with Constitution crew, your family will join the Ship's historic gun crew on anniversary of her battle with HMS Java. Please note: this program is designed for youth age 10 and up and their families. Family Firepower costs $5 per family group. Space is limited and registration is required. More information is available on our website.

Sustain the Stories of America's Ship of State

In the story of USS Constitution's battle with HMS Java, a captain and crew come together against incredible odds to achieve a stirring victory which would inspire a nation. The Museum celebrates our Constitution crew and tells their moving stories far and wide. 

Throughout this challenging year, the support of friends like you has enabled the Museum to remain vibrant and nimble so we can keep telling these stories. Thank you!

Many have asked how you can continue to help Here's how—please stand with the Museum by giving to our calendar year-end Annual Fund appeal. The impact is immediate: your gift provides critical revenue so we can serve students, preserve collections, and fulfill our mission through dynamic virtual programs and exhibits. 

In this unprecedented year, your support of the mission of the Museum has never been more important. With your help, the Ship continues to serve as a welcome example of resilience and endurance today. 

As 2020 comes to a close, your support of the Museum is crucial and every gift matters. Can we count on you to help us sail safely on this next leg of our voyage?