U.S. Brig Niagara to Receive Multi-Million-Dollar Update

The U.S. Brig Niagara — a reconstruction of Oliver Hazard Perry’s relief flagship during the Battle of Lake Erie — is set to get multi-million-dollar upgrades and repairs in preparation for the nation’s 250th anniversary, reports Penn Live.

The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission will continue to collaborate with Flagship Niagara League and the Erie Maritime Museum to make a substantial investment in the museum and the Niagara, which makes its home port at the museum in Erie, Pennsylvania. 

“Both the museum and the ship will receive significant upgrades, with the development of new exhibits at the museum and repairs and improvements to the ship over the next few years.  The elevation of the museum as a top-tier maritime history destination will draw a wider audience, educating more people about this important history and serving as a driver for Erie’s tourism economy,” said the commission, reports Penn Live. The commission will “embark on a multi-million-dollar Commonwealth Capital Project to tackle Niagara’s deferred maintenance and to make major systems upgrades. The significant investment of resources over the next two years will culminate in the ship sailing Pennsylvania’s northwest coast in 2026 when the United States and the Commonwealth celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary.”

The commission will resume management of the Niagara and oversee the hiring of a professional crew. The Niagara is expected to spend most of her time taking day trips from her home port, but there are also plans to sail to other Great Lakes destinations and continue to participate in Tall Ships.