Baltimore's Inner Harbor area is home to several ships and a famous lighthouse. During a recent visit I took the opportunity to explore a bit and toured the USS Constellation, the USS Torsk, the US Lightship Chesapeake and the USCGC Taney. Additionally I climbed the Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse that marked the entrance to Baltimore's harbor for 133 years. Each of these monuments from the past celebrates a famous "last." See the descriptions below to learn what they are.

When I was younger (much younger) I yearned to become a sailor. I attempted to become a Naval Officer via the NROTC program (but had to drop out). I have always had a fascination with ships and the sea, but no experience. Well, after my visit to the Inner Harbor and these magnificent vessels, I am glad my life took a different course. I have never been more claustrophobic and uncomfortable than when I toured these ships. I have the greatest respect and admiration for all the men and women who serve the Country so well on ships of the line. My sea-dream still exists, but the reality of what it would take to make it happen puts my desires into the realm of pipe-dreams.