Then + Now: Charlestown Navy Yard

From 1800 to 1974, the Charlestown Navy Yard built, repaired, and outfitted U.S. naval vessels. Today the yard is home to USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world, and the USS Constitution Museum. USS Cassin Young, refitted and modernized in the yard's drydock, represents the type of ship built in the yard during World War II.

Marine Barracks

Left image
1902 photograph of the Marine Barracks in the Charlestown Navy Yard
Credit: NPS Photo/BOST archives

Right image
Modern image from the same location, looking at the Marine Barracks
Credit: NPS Photo

In 1802, US Marines arrived in the Charlestown Navy Yard to guard the USS Constitution. In 1810, the Navy selected a site for new barracks, now the oldest Marine Barracks buildings in the US. Constructed by the Marines themselves, the structure has changed considerably over the years. By 1902, it achieved its present four-story configuration seen in the historic photo.

This building served as a home away from home for many enlisted men. Today, it is used as park housing and offices, including the NPS’s Northeast Museum Services Center.

Entrance to Marine Barracks

Left image
1959 photo of two Marines displaying American flag in front of Marine Barracks
Credit: NPS Photo/BOST archives

Right image
A modern view of the entrance to the Marine Barracks
Credit: NPS Photo

Shinto Torii Gate

Left image
Early 1960s image of Marine ringing bell on Shinto torii, accompanied by a bulldog
Credit: NPS Photo/BOST archives

Right image
Modern day ranger rings the bell on the tori
Credit: NPS Photo

Here you can see Marine Cpl. Anthony R. Johnson and the bulldog "Jiggs O'Toole" (the name given to the initial dynasty of Marine Corps bulldog mascots).

Learn More

To learn more about Charlestown Navy Yard, check out Boston National Historical Park's website.

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