In the history of sailing vessels, it is difficult to encounter a ship whose activities were as diverse as its use of service. Indeed, the US Constellation started her active life in 1798 and was withdrawn from service in 1955. Her missions included seizing numerous ships, defending the Hawaiian Islands against annexation by the British in 1843, and transporting food to Ireland during the Great Famine. Today it brings back glorious memories to tens of thousands who visit her each year in Baltimore. If she could talk she would be able to teach us a great deal of American History.