...provides a wonderful journey

– Jerry McGovern, Press- Republican

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.

– Russell Bellico, Professor of Economic History, Westfield State College and Author of Sails and Steam in the Mountains: A Maritime and Militar

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

– Joseph Ryan, Fellow of the Company of Military Historians

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.

– James C. Bradford, Department of History, Texas A&M University

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.

– Andrew P. O'Rourke, Justice of the Supreme Court; Retired Vice Admiral

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

– Paddy Griffith, PhD, author and former instructor, Sandhurst Royal Military Academy, England

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.

– Charles H. Cureton, PhD, Lieutenant Colonel, USMC retired

...[A] terrific study...

– Sea Classics