National Park Service: A Boy’s Life as a Powder Monkey

Explore the USS Constitution while you learn what life would be like as a powder monkey during the War of 1812. The USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned warship that is still afloat in the world. Learning your job as a powder monkey on this ship is a real privilege. Follow the instructions of your guide as he takes you around the ship to learn about the many areas you’ll need to know. Do a few activities in preparation for the final one where you’ll have to make your way through the ship carrying powder for one of the ship’s cannons. Do you think you can be successful?

courtesy of Knovation