WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pride of Baltimore II is heading to Washington. The topsail schooner will be on display as part of the bicentennial celebrations of the War of 1812.

The ship is a reproduction of the sailing vessels that were used as privateers during the war. The fast, maneuverable ships came to be known as Baltimore Clippers and are credited with helping the United States win the war against Britain and secure the young nation’s freedom.

The schooner will be docked at the Washington Navy Yard on Thursday and Friday. The Pride will then move to the Gangplank Marina where it will be docked from Saturday through Tuesday before heading back to Baltimore.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)