Elliott and the USS Constitution-- Part 2: What Went On Aboard the Ship

Jesse Elliott received orders to sail to the Mediterranean Sea and take charge of the squadron there.  The next years, from 1835 to 1838, were a surreal experience for the Constitution's crew as Elliott repeatedly ignored regulations and abused his authority.

He took advantage of the annual circuits of Mediterranean ports to sightsee and gather memorabilia.  Along the way, he acquired antiques, "exotic" animals including donkeys, a set of papal busts, a stuffed ibis, a pair of Roman sarcophagi, antique coins and large marble spheres.

He toured parts of the Middle East with an entourage from the ship and swam in the Dead Sea.  Elliott also accepted unauthorized gifts from the Marmeluke ruler of Egypt.

Living in Style, That Elliott.  --Brock-Perry