New Blog 2: Boston Tall Ships 2012

Boston Tall Ships 2012

The Tall Ships return to Boston this summer in order to mark the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the “Star-Spangled Banner.” This, part of what is being termed “OpSail 2012,” will be the first time such a fleet has graced Boston’s waters since 2009, when the popular “Sail Boston” event drew thousands daily to the waterfront, where the majestic vessels docked over a stretch that included Independence Day.The Eagle and Constitution will be docked at the Charlestown Navy Yard, as the latter always is. The Branco, Gloria, ayas, and Dewarucci can be found at Boston’s Fish Pier. The Constitution’s inclusion makes perfect ense, as the ship played a large role in the War of 1812, capturing the crew of the British’s HMS Guerriere in August of the year.All public ship tours are free to the public. Other stops for OpSail 2012 include New Orleans (April 17-24), New York (May 23-30), Norfolk, Virginia (June 7-12), Baltimore (June 13-19), nd New London, Conn. (July 6-8).In addition, OpSail has announced a special War of 1812 and Star-gled ner essayand art contest aimed at high schoolers, who are being asked to share a 1,000-word essay on e role of the nstitution in the War of 1812, their feelings on the Banner, the role of the revenue cutter in ion during the war. Each ntrant must also submit an accompanying watercolor, oil or pencil drawing illustrating his or her essay.