Old Ironsides

...provides a wonderful journey

A fascinating and well-documented story of America's most celebrated warship. Fitz-Enz not only does an incredible job of describing the Constitution's battle history, but he also provides readers with a clear insight into the intricacies of early sailing vessels and the strategies of sea power...a superb work.

It makes you want to walk the deck of the U.S.S. Constitution. And we all should.

The Constitution has not wanted for chroniclers, but this is a welcome addition because it both adds new information that puts 'Old Ironsides' in context of both American and naval history. A well-written, action-filled narrative.

I appreciated the historical research that included the background and history of the age of sail, the nuances of the many trades involved and the action of "Old Ironsides" woven together with care and love for the subject. The book is a broadside of history, action and the romance of the sea.

Of very great interest to any student of the naval history of the era.

The Constitution began as just another ship, but it became "Old Ironsides" and then it became a symbol of the United States. How it was designed and built, and how it went on to become such a significant part of America and its history, is the subject of this exhaustively researched and beautifully written work by David Fitz-Enz. A must for all students of American naval history.

...[A] terrific study...