Erie County was formed in the 1800’s after Pennsylvania purchased the Erie Triangle from the U.S. Government in 1792 for approximately $151,000. Taken from part of Allegheny County, the new county was then named for Lake Erie and the Eriez Native American Indian tribe. The city was laid out in 1795 and became a port in 1801. In 1813, in what is often referred to as Erie’s proudest historical moment, Commodore Oliver Perry defeated the British in the Battle of Lake Erie. At the Battle’s climax, Perry raised his battle flag emblazoned with the words “Don’t Give Up the Ship” and ordered “close action”, severing the British line and leading to the enemy’s surrender.
The Erie Maritime Museum tells the story of the maritime history and heritage of the Greater Erie region, the War of 1812 narrative, civilian activity and innovation, military service, and Pennsylvania’s contributions to the maritime industry and stewardship of the Great Lakes. Its centerpiece exhibit is the U.S. Brig Niagara, a floating maritime museum and active sailing vessel docked behind the museum.
Formerly known as the Erie County Historical Society, the Hagen History Center Campus showcases the history of Erie County over the past 200 years in addition to special exhibits, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s original San Francisco Office. The museum features exhibit buildings, archival and curatorial collections, educational classrooms and the Battles Estates located in nearby Girard, PA.
Erie’s three lighthouses are picture-perfect spots for exploring Erie’s maritime history at your own pace. Get more details on VisitErie’s Self-Guided Tours page.
There are several self-guided walking and driving tours that tell the story of Erie’s history.
814-454-1813
436 Walnut Street
Girard, PA 16417
In front of Blasco Library/160 East Front Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-454-1813
356 West 6th Street
Erie , PA 16507
814-452-2744
150 East Front Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-453-3743
420 French Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-456-5969
428 Chestnut Street
Erie, PA 16507
814-734-6699
221 Waterford Street
Edinboro, PA 16412
716-326-2003
8305 West Main Road
Westfield, NY 14787
814-454-1813
356 West 6th Street
Erie, PA 16501
814-725-1911
31 Wall Street
North East, PA 16428
814-449-9012
150 East Front Street - Erie Maritime Museum
Erie, PA 16507
716-484-222
203 W. Second Street
Jamestown, NY 14701
814-833-3604
Presque Isle State Park, east of Beach 6
Erie, PA 16505
814-833-7424
301 Peninsula Drive
Erie, PA 16505
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