Blog

Unlike the well-known furry variety, USS Constitution‘s many mouses are lumps of line and canvas built up on the outside of the diagonal stays that run between the masts. The mouse prevents the stay, which is looped around the mast and secured with an eye splice, from tightening up on itself. In Constitution‘s 1992-1996 restoration, several mousesRead more

When thinking of USS Constitution‘s restorations, it’s easy to focus on the more heroic projects, like rebuilding the cutwater, replacing the hull planks, and recoppering. Equally necessary to the ship’s longevity, however, are the little known, behind-the-scenes tasks that make the bigger projects possible. Throughout the restoration, Naval History & Heritage Command Detachment Boston ship restorers are busy rolling oakum,Read more