The USS Constitution and HMS Guerriere. 19th August.1812 Oil on Canvas. 30 x 20 inches The USS Constitution is rightly the pride of the American Navy. She was launched in 1797 armed with 44 guns and first served in the quasi-war with France. She also saw action in the Tripoli conflict of 1801-5 when she carried the flag of Commodore Preble. But it was during the war of 1812 that she gained her reputation. Congress declared war against Great Britain without any preparation, consequently morale was low after some initial setbacks but then news arrived that Constitution, commanded by Captain Isaac Hull had readily defeated and burned the Royal Navy’s Frigate Guerriere of 48 guns on the 19th August 1812. It was during this action that Constitution acquired the name ‘Old Ironsides’ when shot from the English cannon failed to penetrate her hull. Guerriere was so damaged that she was unfit for salvage and after Captain Hull had removed all the crew including the wounded and their possessions he ordered her burned. Constitution went on to defeat the Frigate Java on the 29 December 1812. In 1815 she captured two English vessels, the Cyane, 32 guns and the Levant 20 Guns in a single four hour battle.
