U.S.S. Constitution: Living the Legend

Despite its relative youth, the United States has a surprising number of enduring symbols of its turbulent birth and restless growth. The Alamo, Uncle Sam, the Liberty Bell, Plymouth Rock; each conjures up an image of an America in action, of a time, perhaps more mythical than factual, when everything seemed possible and nothing seemed to stand in our way. ‘Old Ironsides', formally known as the U.S.S. Constitution, is one of those symbols, and in the summer of 1997, it set sail--albeit briefly--from Boston harbor and unleashed a torrent of nostalgia. This is the story of the Constitution and of its unique place not only in American history but in maritime lore. A technological marvel of its time, the ship set the standard for warships to follow, and the program details the original plans of the Constitution and how it has been altered and restored throughout the years. What detracts only slightly is the often stilted and sonorous narration that will soon lull many viewers into drowsiness. Other than that, the photography is high quality and the sight of the Constitution at full sail is inspiring, indeed. The price of this video and its obvious appeal to a wide audience makes it appropriate for purchase by any public library. Recommended. (J. Carlson)