Relics of the USS Constellation
Artifact IDMO 63.1321
Object Type
Relic, Historic
Date
circa 1797-1829
Date Presented5/29/1963
Medium
Wood, metal, copper
DimensionsOverall H 10 in x W 24 in (25.4 cm x 61 cm)
Physical DescriptionTwo copper spikes from USS Constellation mounted on a piece of ship's deck. Brass plate on wood engraved: "Relics of USS Constellation. Cyprus planking from Orlop deck circa 1829. Short spike of 1812 vintage. Long copper spike used in original ship construction in 1797."
Historical NoteThe USS Constellation was a 38 gun frigate and the first ship to be commissioned by the United States Navy. The Constellation was launched on September 7, 1797. The ship was decommissioned in 1840 after fifty years of service. This plaque was presented to John F. Kennedy on his birthday, May 29, 1963.
Additional DetailsCustodial History NoteThis item is material associated with the White House the Kennedy Administration and the Executive Offices of the President. It was either government property or was donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesKennedy Administration Collection 1960-1963 (National Archives Identifier 1676959)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.In Collection(s)
Not on view