On this day in history in 1812: The USS Constitution defeated the British frigate Guerriere in the Atlantic some 600 miles east of Nova Scotia. This victory provided the ship with its immortal nickname “Old Ironsides.”

During the battle, the British sailors were astonished as their cannonballs bounced harmlessly off the Constitution’s hull which caused one to exclaim, “Her sides are made of iron.” The Constitution garnered a sterling reputation and provided a bright spot in what was at the time a failing war effort by the United States.

The Constitution remains in service to this day making it the world’s oldest commissioned warship. It can be visited in the Charlestown Navy Yard in Massachusetts.