If you find yourself headed to Erie, PA travel North on State Street to the bayfront and you will find the Brig Niagara, be sure to visit the museum!

The Brig Niagara is a historic ship that played a significant role in the War of 1812. Commissioned by the United States Navy in 1813, the Brig Niagara was built to replace the original Brig Niagara, which had been captured by the British in 1813. The new ship was built in Erie, Pennsylvania, and was launched on August 4, 1813.

The Brig Niagara was designed by Master Commandant Oliver Hazard Perry, who was tasked with building a fleet of ships to defend Lake Erie. Perry selected the Brig design for the Niagara because it was a fast and maneuverable ship that could carry heavy armament.

The Brig Niagara played a key role in the Battle of Lake Erie, which took place on September 10, 1813. In the battle, Perry’s fleet engaged a British fleet in a fierce fight that lasted several hours. Despite being outnumbered, Perry and his men managed to defeat the British, capturing six of their ships in the process. Perry famously declared, “We have met the enemy and they are ours.”

After the battle, Perry transferred his flag to the captured British ship, the HMS Detroit. He then ordered the Brig Niagara to be sunk, as it had suffered significant damage in the battle. However, the ship was later salvaged and rebuilt, and went on to serve in the United States Navy for several years.

Today, the Brig Niagara is owned and operated by the Flagship Niagara League, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to preserving the ship and promoting maritime education. The ship is open to the public for tours and sails, and serves as a floating classroom for students of all ages.

Visitors to the Brig Niagara can learn about the ship’s history and the role it played in the War of 1812. They can also experience life on board a historic ship, and see first-hand the challenges that sailors faced in the early 19th century.

In addition to offering tours and sails, the Flagship Niagara League also operates a maritime museum in Erie, Pennsylvania. The museum features exhibits on the War of 1812, as well as displays on maritime history and culture.

Overall, the Brig Niagara is an important piece of American maritime history. Its role in the Battle of Lake Erie helped secure victory for the United States in the War of 1812, and its legacy continues to inspire and educate people today.