Fort Sewall saves USS Constitution from British capture in 1814
- Fort Sewall was established in 1644 and is located in Marblehead, Massachusetts.
- During the War of 1812, Fort Sewall played a key role in saving the USS Constitution from British capture.
- Today, Fort Sewall serves as a public park and remains an important historical site for the community.
In Marblehead, Massachusetts, Fort Sewall has served an important historical role since it was built in 1644. Although it didn't see significant action during the American Revolution, its historical significance was established during the War of 1812. In 1814, during this conflict, the USS Constitution, famously nicknamed 'Old Ironsides,' was pursued by two British warships. Captain Isaac Hull, aware of Marblehead Harbor's geography, directed the ship toward Fort Sewall. The fort's crew fired a cannon shot, successfully delaying the pursuing British vessels, allowing the Constitution to escape from capture. The incident of firing upon the British ships symbolized a turning point for the fort, marking its place in history as a protector during a critical moment in the War of 1812. While there were no fatalities, the uproar came from the ship's need to lighten its load to maneuver into the harbor, which led to the discarding of 1,500 gallons of rum—a significant loss that saddened many residents of Marblehead. This event is particularly remembered by locals as the fort’s '15 minutes of fame' for its crucial role in helping the USS Constitution evade capture. After the end of the 19th century, Fort Sewall was decommissioned in the late 1800s and eventually turned over to the town in 1922. Following its handover, the fort underwent multiple renovations to transform it into a public park. Today, it provides a recreational space for both residents and tourists. According to local historian Don Doliber and Larry Sands, who leads the fort's oversight committee, the site has become hallowed ground for the community, offering beautiful views and serving as a cherished location for leisure activities, with many people enjoying walks and experiences at this historically significant site. Overall, Fort Sewall remains a testament to Marblehead’s contributions during the War of 1812 and stands as a vibrant reminder of the region's past significance in American naval history.