THE FRIGATE “CONSTITUTION” IS LAUNCHED IN BOSTON

constitution-launch-fp.jpgTHE VESSEL TO BE KNOWN AS “OLD IRONSIDES” SLIDES INTO THE SEA

Columbian Centinel, Boston
October 25, 1797

The powerful new 44-gun frigate, “Constitution,” which would become famous during the War of 1812, is launched in Boston harbor. An eyewitness report reads, in part: “The best judges have pronounced the CONSTITUTION, like her archetype to be a perfect model of elegance, strength, and durability.” The famous ship served gloriously in the Tripolitan conflict in the Mediterranean, the quasi-naval war with France, and the War of 1812, in which she won three major victories over British frigates, stunning the naval world. In 1925, the ship was refurbished and is now permanently moored in Boston Harbor as a national monument.

“Off with their heads!” The front page contains a fascinating report on the origin of the infamous French execution weapon, the Guillotine! It was said “….that sixty persons perished by it in less than an hour….”

Four pages, fine condition with just normal light foxing. A rare home-town newspaper report.

$1,295

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Posted by mmitchell | Filed Under All Historic Newspapers, Early America