The USS Constitution Spar of Topeka High

Since 1931, the east side of Topeka High School has featured an original spar from the USS Constitution. The spar was brought to Topeka by alumni of the school, including U.S. Vice President Charles Curtis. Weather, wear, and the work of woodpeckers led to the first being replaced in 2004 by a spar that had also been utilized by the storied wooded ship. After being struck by lightning in 2007, a third spar was given to THS in 2008 as a replacement. The spar stands alongside a bell from the USS Topeka.

Topeka High's spar is from the USS Constitution, nicknamed "Old Ironsides," after a cannon from an enemy ship supposedly bounded off the ship's side during the War of 1812. The USS Constitution was first launched in 1707 and remains commissioned by the Navy today, making it the world's oldest commissioned warship.

Topeka High graduate Barton Phelps has been credited with getting the spar to his alma matter. Phelps was inspecting the Boston Naval Yard for the Department of the Navy when he found the spar in storage while the USS Constitution was refitting. Phelps sought help from fellow THS alum Vice President Charles Curtis to arrange for the spar to be sent to the school.

The spar was dedicated in 1931 and has long been a source of pride for students, faculty, and alumni. Following years of wear and the work of woodpeckers, the spar was replaced in 2004 by another spar that had also been used by the Constitution. The availability of the replacement is a reflection of the ship's extended use as a heritage tourism attraction as the floating vessel's wooden parts need constant maintenance and occasional replacement. After being struck by lightning in 2007, a third spar was given to THS in 2008 as a replacement.

Hall, Brian. Topeka High School, Tauy Creek. July 15th, 2019. Accessed April 24th, 2023. http://www.tauycreek.com/2019/07/topeka-high-school.html.

Hrenchir, Tim. A spar from the USS Constitution, 'Old Ironsides,' is a flagpole at Topeka High School, Topeka Capital-Journal. September 29th, 2021. Accessed April 24th, 2023. https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2021/09/29/topeka-high-school-flagpole-uses-spar-from-uss-constitution-old-ironsides/5882401001/.