Gratefully dedicated
to the students of
Cathedral Preparatory School
who served our country during
World War II
1941 - 1945
Our Honored Dead
Lt. Com. Charles J. Weschler '27
Lt. James Quinn '39
Lt. John . . . — — Map (db m116393) WM
Erie's original Russian neighborhood, known as "Russian Town". Encompassed the area from Front Street to Third St., and Parade St. to French St. The original Church of the Nativity of Christ was the center of this neighborhood. The church was built . . . — — Map (db m116423) HM
At 236 East 11th Street. Founded 1874, this is Erie's oldest African-American congregation. Five of its first six members were women. Originally at 3rd and German Streets, this church has long ministered to the spiritual and social needs of the Erie . . . — — Map (db m41044) HM
The Ariel, Porcupine,
Scorpion and Tigress,
gunboats of
Commodore Perry,
in the Battle of Lake Erie, Sep. 10, 1813,
were built on the bay front, 100 yards north
of this spot, early in the same year. — — Map (db m21426) HM
The three Cascade Street Docks provided the setting for much of the Bayfront development that followed construction of the Bayfront Parkway. Without them, there would not have been enough area to create the complex of modern activities that have . . . — — Map (db m116449) HM
Erie's maritime economy spread west along the waterfront when State Street was extended creating the east and west basins, the Public Dock was developed and the Reed family moved its operation to the Sassafras Street Dock below. In 1841 a canal to . . . — — Map (db m116441) HM
In 1795 Andrew Ellicott and General William Irvine commissioned by the State, arrived in the area to survey and lay out "a town to be called Erie." Using the southeast corner of the old French fort at the foot of Parade Street as a starting point . . . — — Map (db m27354) HM
The Lawrence and Niagara, Flagships of
Commodore Perry,
in the Battle of Lake Erie, Sep. 10, 1813, were built on the bay front, 100 yards north of this spot, early in the same year. — — Map (db m21424) HM
It is said that Manitou, the Great Spirit, led his favorite children, the Erie tribe, to the shores of this great inland sea where they fished its waters, hunted, and tilled the field.
As the Eries ventured into the lake to find the place where . . . — — Map (db m116435) HM
The black and white lighthouse on the north pier of the channel to Presque Isle Bay has guided mariners since 1858. Its cast iron was forged in France and replaced a wooden beacon that was destroyed by a schooner in a 1857 storm. No other surviving . . . — — Map (db m116434) HM
In honor of all Seabees by
The U.S. Navy Seabee
Veterans of America
Island X-11
Chautauqua Region
Jamestown, New York
on March 5, 2008 — — Map (db m116425) WM
Lawrence J. Toth, longstanding advocate and staunch supporter of free public access along the Presque Isle Bayfront and the open water shoreline of Lake Erie, Larry was born in Scranton, Pennsylvania. and spent his professional public service career . . . — — Map (db m180000) HM
Built in 1842, one of few fine examples of Greek Revival residential architecture remaining in Erie. The family of owner Charles M. Tibbals, onetime customs collector and a founder of Chicago & Erie Stove Co., resided here until 1903. Listed on . . . — — Map (db m116420) HM
Saving the Day
During the famous naval Battle of Erie, Perry's ship Lawrence led the charge into the British fleet that controlled the lake. After Lawrence was disabled by enemy fire, Perry and four men of his crew rowed through . . . — — Map (db m116415) HM
Built in Erie in 1843, USS Michigan (later named Wolverine) was the US Navys first iron-hulled ship. Michigan was stationed in Erie, served on the Great Lakes until 1923, scrapped in 1949. — — Map (db m226786) HM
In memory of those who paid the
★ Supreme Sacrifice ★
in the World War
Erected by Service Star Legion No.1 M.O.D.
Dedicated to
Those Who Served
in World War II
★Erected by Service Star . . . — — Map (db m116473) WM
This memorial
erected
November 11, 1973
by
the citizens
of
Erie County
in appreciation
to the
men and women
who served honorably
in the
Vietnam Era Conflict
The names below represent those killed in . . . — — Map (db m116376) WM
"Take what they have left and what they have taught you with their passing. And when there is a time when men decide and feel safe to call any war insane, take one moment to embrace . . . — — Map (db m116533) WM
This Saltbox style farm house was built about 1815 in West Millcreek, south of Wheaton Rd. (later Knobloch Rd. now W. 38th St.), on land owned by Irish immigrant John Nicholson (1764-1828) who came to Erie County in 1797. House was owned for a time . . . — — Map (db m132254) HM
This Richardsonian-Romanesque style mansion & carriage house on "Millionaire's Row", built entirely of Medina Sandstone, was designed by prominent Buffalo architects, Green & Wicks for roofing paper maker & inventor, Harrison F. Watson . . . — — Map (db m226782) HM
Last in command of the U.S.S. Wolverine formerly the U.S.S. Michigan the first iron-hulled battleship (1843-1949).
Under his direction, the Pennsylvania Naval Militia in 1910 used the ship as its training base and on April 10, 1917, marched to . . . — — Map (db m116345) HM
Launched at Presque Isle in the spring of 1813, the schooner Ariel was commanded by Lieutenant John Packet during the Battle of Lake Erie on September 10, 1813. She carried a crew of 36 and was armed with four 12-pounders. At the onset of the . . . — — Map (db m132217) HM
Named in honor of
Harborcreek Township's Fallen Son
Senior Airman Bryan Bell
2-10-88 / 1-5-12
who died in service to his country
Helmand Province, Afghanistan
466th Explosive Ordnance Disposal — Delta Flight — . . . — — Map (db m132203) WM
Jesse Duncan Elliott (1782-1845) was born in Maryland. Originally a law student, he joined the US Navy and was a midshipman in 1804. Promoted to lieutenant in 1810, he was placed in command of the brig Niagara during the Battle of Lake Erie . . . — — Map (db m132220) HM
Earliest railroad activity along the Lake Erie shoreline began in the early 1840s, with local investors forming the Erie & North East Railroad. Finished in 1852, this 19-mile section of 6 foot gauge track ran from the City of Erie near 14th Street . . . — — Map (db m132202) HM
Tracing the Family Legacy
Seven generation of Gifford-Blanchfield family members resided in this historic homestead, built in 1839 by Gershom and Lucy Gifford. Though briefly owned by nonfamily members, the house returned to its original . . . — — Map (db m132201) HM
This veterans memorial is hereby
dedicated to those Harborcreek area
men and women who have honorably
served in the Armed Forces of the
United States of the America
We the people who hold life so dear salute our veterans who served in . . . — — Map (db m132196) WM
Named in honor of
Harborcreek Township's Fallen Son
Cpl. Jarrid King
693rd Sapper Company
who died in service to his country
January 12, 2011
Ghazni Province, Afghanistan
Dedicated this Memorial Day, 2011
by his family, . . . — — Map (db m132204) WM
Launched in May of 1813, the brig Niagara was named after the American Fort Niagara, Sister ship to the Lawrence, she had a crew of 155 and was armed with two 12-pounders and eighteen 32-pounders under the command of Captain Jesse . . . — — Map (db m132207) HM
John H. Packet (1790-1820) was born in Virginia. He was commissioned as a midshipman in 1809, serving aboard the Constitution. Midshipman Packet arrived in Erie in 1813 and was promoted to lieutenant a few days prior to the Battle of Lake . . . — — Map (db m132215) HM
Originally named the Catherine, the ship was purchased in 1812 by the US Navy and renamed Somers. The schooner was commanded by Sailing Master Thomas C. Almy during the Battle of Lake Erie on September 10, 1813. She carried a crew of . . . — — Map (db m132223) HM
This Fireplace is the last remaining part of the Original Log Cabin Restaurant/Dance Hall and Gas Station which once stood here and built and owned by Leo Russell and Nina Gifford Russell. — — Map (db m132195) HM
John Joliffe Yarnall (1786-1815) was born in Wheeling, West Virginia. Enlisting as a midshipman in the US Navy in 1809, he performed blockade duties during the Napoleonic Wars before being assigned as a first lieutenant on Commodore Perry's flagship . . . — — Map (db m132221) HM
Pump House Park
Historically, these ponds functioned as settling basins to help clean drinking water. Over time, park visitors were able to enjoy this area for its recreation. Amenities included a bathhouse, band shell, and picnic groves. . . . — — Map (db m132262) HM
What was the War of 1812? America declared war against Great Britain on June 18, 1812. The conflict lasted for over two years. Many historians believe that the war was the inevitable outcome of Britain's continued interference in U.S. . . . — — Map (db m129898) HM
James "Jim" Thompson (1863-1931)
Erie native Jim Thompson worked to improve visitor access to the park and to protect the shoreline of the peninsula. As one of his governmental duties, Thompson was a member of the Pennsylvania State Park and . . . — — Map (db m132272) HM
Advocate for Presque Isle
Don Guerrein founded the Presque Isle Partnership in 1994. The mission of the partnership is to enhance the Presque Isle visitors' experience by developing, funding and implementing projects and programs on the . . . — — Map (db m233971) HM
An Idea is Born
State Representative Karl Boyes and his wife, Sue, often visited Presque Isle to enjoy the natural beauty. Unfortunately there was no place in the park for them to enjoy their hobbies of bicycling and jogging without . . . — — Map (db m132255) HM
The Realities of War
The citizens of Erie saluted Perry's men upon their victorious return to Presque Isle Bay, but the celebration was short-lived. The local courthouse was converted into a makeshift hospital for the severely wounded and . . . — — Map (db m132269) HM
This beach, formerly Beach 10, is named in honor of Patrick "Pat" Budny, who at age 17, became the first person to swim the 23 miles between Long Point, Ontario, Canaca, and Presque Isle State Park. Budny accomplished this feat in 26 hours on August . . . — — Map (db m132274) HM
Opposite this spot, on the shores of Presque Isle Bay, Commodore Perry built his ships. The “Lawrence,” “Niagara,” “Ariel,” “Porcupine,” “Scorpion” & “Tigress.” On August 12, . . . — — Map (db m129900) HM WM
A section of this canal, linking New Castle and Erie, lies at foot of the slope, to left of side road. Conneaut Line, Erie to Conneaut Lake, begun by State, 1838; finished by company headed by R.S. Reed, of Erie, 1843-44. — — Map (db m72984) HM
A Great Lakes Port Erie was incorporated in 1851 and soon developed into an important industrial city. The natural harbor, formed by Presque Isle, served as the magnet that drew economic prosperity to Pennsylvania's only lake port.
. . . — — Map (db m129975) HM
Water for a Growing City
As the industrial revolution brought tremendous growth to the city of Erie, the need for a more reliable water supply became apparent. A water intake was constructed in the bay in 1867. After continued typhoid fever . . . — — Map (db m132259) HM
Early Fishing in Erie
Fishing on Lake Erie is as old as the first Eriez Indian to set foot on the sandy shores of Presque Isle. The Eriez used log canoes and harvested the fish with spears and basket-traps. Early European settlers to the . . . — — Map (db m132264) HM
The final lighthouse design incorporated bricks five-courses thick to withstand the severe cold and winds off the lake. Overall, the structure cost $15,000.
Construction began in September, 1872 and was completed by the following July. . . . — — Map (db m129990) HM
Trapped in the Bay
The protected harbor and sandbar that had kept the British from entering bay also prevented Perry's two largest ships from leaving. A mere four feet of water lay over the sandbar that separated the bay from the lake. The . . . — — Map (db m132266) HM
Giant Gondola Wheel George Washington Ferris and his giant Ferris Wheel In 1892 a bridge building engineer named George Washington Ferris had an idea for the upcoming Chicago Columbian Exposition...a giant observation wheel that would carry . . . — — Map (db m107746) HM
From Boats to Birds
This small sandpit, encompassing 18 acres of wetlands, is known today as Leo's Landing. Historically, it was known as the West Boat Livery. Leo Hess and others operated the West Boat Livery and docks here from 1938 until . . . — — Map (db m132256) HM
Here today's highway leaves the course of the Presque Isle Portage, part of the historic Venango Trail. The French Road, built in 1753, following an Indian path, turned down into the valley. — — Map (db m41041) HM
Perry Monument commemorates the victory of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry over the British in the Battle of Lake Erie on September 10, 1813. Erected by the Continental Construction Company of Erie and dedicated September 10, 1926, the monument . . . — — Map (db m132270) HM
Deep in the Wilderness Across the Bay lies Erie. In 1812, Erie was a small village of about 400 people and 100 homes. In those days, Erie was surrounded by wilderness and barely accessible by land. Everything was in short supply. Crude, often . . . — — Map (db m129959) HM
Presque Isle
has been designated a
Registered
Natural Landmark
under the provisions of the
Historic Sites Act of August 21, 1933
This site possesses exceptional value
in illustrating the natural
history of the United . . . — — Map (db m132341) HM
Oliver Hazard Perry (1785-1819) was born on August 23, 1785 in South Kingstown, Rhode Island. The son of a U.S. Navy captain, Perry joined the Navy at the age of 13, fighting Barbary pirates on the Mediterranean Sea. He commanded his first . . . — — Map (db m129973) HM
Stull Interpretive Center
In the 1920s, a small rustic building known as the Police Barracks, served as the "State Park Police" headquarters. In 1935, the building was moved to the sawmill area and a new wooden structure was built here in . . . — — Map (db m132283) HM
The Bell Tower and Carillon is a gift to St. Jude the Apostle Parish from Herbert and Audrey Emig Sweny and children in memory of the Deceased Sweny and Emig Families.
The three bronze bells originally hung in the tower of St. Michael's Church, . . . — — Map (db m116371) HM
In the early 19th Century the Great Lakes provided the single most important transportation system in the country. Throughout the lakes, mariners depended heavily on lighthouses to warn of hazards to navigation and to mark major land features.
A . . . — — Map (db m129989) HM
“The loneliest place on earth” is how Charles Waldo, the first keeper of the Presque Isle Lighthouse, described his 7 year tenure at the station.
Waldo lived at the lighthouse with his family when, on July 12, 1873 he wrote: . . . — — Map (db m129980) HM
As recreation became more popular especially at the Waterwork area, access to the peninsula became an issue. This road, now known as Old Lake Road, was the first roadway built on Presque Isle. It was originally referred to as Peninsula Road and . . . — — Map (db m132278) HM
For more than fifty years a narrow pathway served as the keepers primary link to civilization. Sand and dirt at first, and then paved in 1925, the current “sidewalk trail” led the keeper to his boathouse on Misery Bay for the second leg . . . — — Map (db m129991) HM
Welcome to Presque Isle State Park and Perry Monument
This monument honors Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, a naval war hero who defeated the British at the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812.
Crystal Point Under the command of . . . — — Map (db m129899) HM
How It Works
This area was once the working hub of the water system for the city of Erie. Water was drawn from Lake Erie into these settling ponds to your left and right. From the ponds the water would travel to the Chestnut Street . . . — — Map (db m132261) HM
The Oliver Hazard Perry Monument The Continental Construction Company of Erie constructed this 80-foot limestone monument to Oliver Hazard Perry in 1926. Erie architect Fred Fuller designed the monument. Its cost exceeded $45,000.
A Popular . . . — — Map (db m129961) HM
The State's only lake port, bought with Erie Triangle, 1792. Laid out in 1795 by Ellicott and Irvine. Site of French, British and U.S. forts. Perry built his fleet here in 1813. — — Map (db m31969) HM
Dan Rice arrived in Girard in 1854. He purchased several acres in the center of Girard borough and built a large estate where you are standing now. Dan Rice was one of Girard's most famous citizens. He owned his own circus and housed his circus . . . — — Map (db m179996) HM
Born in Girard, she overcame traditional roles by graduating from college and being named president of R.S. Battles Bank after her father's death in 1904. Battles gained national attention when she refused to close the bank after President Roosevelt . . . — — Map (db m179991) HM
America's most famous clown of the Nineteenth Century, Dan Rice (1823-1900), had the winter quarters of his circus in Girard from 1852 to 1875. The nearby Soldiers' Monument was donated by the versatile clown and showman, whose home stood opposite. — — Map (db m84770) HM
Part of the old channel is visible by the present railroad, which replaced the canal. Lockport, now Platea, was founded in 1839 at a point where a series of locks, 28 in two miles, lowered boats bound for Erie. Canal open 1844-71. — — Map (db m84768) HM
In memory of
Trooper Jos. F. McMillen
who was fatally injured in
a motor vehicle accident
near this spot while in
performance of his duty on
May 12 1956 — — Map (db m163651) HM
Chief Steward & President, United Electrical Workers Union Local 506, 1942-1959. Accused of McCarthy-era Communist activity, he was the first union leader fired by General Electric, 1953. He defended workers civil liberties while UE represented him . . . — — Map (db m84904) HM
The northern boundary of Pennsylvania, before the purchase of the Erie Triangle in 1792, crossed the highway at this point. The State paid $151,640.25 for the Erie tract and its port on the Lakes. — — Map (db m72985) HM
In memory of those who gave their lives that others might live
World War II
Lloyd S. Wilkinson Richard O. Heiden Donald B. Craig Philip S. Fromyer Francis L. Haaser Chester Demereski Michael Yanov Neal W. Cunningham . . . — — Map (db m132192) WM
Erected in honor of the young men of
North East and Vicinity
who entered the service of our country
in the World War of 1917-1919
and dedicated in loving memory to the
following who made the supreme sacrifice
J. Wayne . . . — — Map (db m132194) WM
Judah Colt as Agent began the first Pennsylvania Population Co. development here in 1797, setting up the first organized settlement in Erie County, at head of flatboat navigation on French Creek. — — Map (db m64579) HM
Founded 1681 by William Penn as a Quaker Commonwealth. Birthplace of THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE and THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES. — — Map (db m84902) HM
Thomas C. Almy (1787-1813) was born in Rhode Island. A Quaker, Almy began his naval career as a young boy. Showing much skill and promise he received his first command at age 21. During the Battle of Lake Erie on September 10, 1813, Sailing Master . . . — — Map (db m132211) HM
Built in 1807 near Amherstburg in Upper Canada, the Caledonia was a British naval vessel prior to her capture in 1812 by a boarding party led by American naval officer Jesse D. Elliott. The Caledonia had a crew of 53 men and was armed . . . — — Map (db m132224) HM
Stephen Champlin (1789-1870) was born in South Kingstown, Rhode Island. A cousin of Commodore Perry, Champlin left home at the age of 16 to join the US Navy. In July 1813 Sailing Master Champlin was placed in command of the schooner Scorpion . . . — — Map (db m132218) HM
Launched in May of 1813, the brig Lawrence was named after Captain James Lawrence, who gave the command "Don't Give Up the Ship," as he lay dying. Sister ship to the Niagara, the Lawrence had a crew of 134 and was armed with the . . . — — Map (db m132210) HM
Originally a merchant schooner, the ship was purchased by the US Navy in 1812 and renamed Ohio, under the command of Sailing Master Daniel Dobbins. She carried a crew of 35 and was armed with one 24-pounder. The ship was primarily used for . . . — — Map (db m132212) HM
Launched at Presque Isle in the spring of 1813, the schooner Scorpion was commanded by Sailing Master Stephen Champlin during the Battle of Lake Erie on September 10, 1813. She carried a crew of 35 and was armed with two 32-pounders. The . . . — — Map (db m132219) HM
Originally named Contractor, the sloop Trippe was purchased by the US Navy in 1812. Under the command of Lieutenant Thomas Holdup, she carred a crew of 35 and was armed with one 32-pounder. During the Battle of Lake Erie on September . . . — — Map (db m132214) HM
Daniel Turner (1794-1850) was born in Staten Island, New York. Appointed a midshipman in the US Navy in 1808, he quickly rose through the ranks, being appointed a lieutenant in 1813 and assigned to command of the Niagara. Relinquishing . . . — — Map (db m132225) HM
Union City's railroad connectivity and existing lumber businesses positioned the small community, after the discovery of oil near Titusville in 1859, to establish an oil-barrel industry. The Woods & Johnson barrel factory by 1870 employed 70 . . . — — Map (db m175393) HM
The South Branch of French Creek also known as "Little French Creek" powered Union City's earliest economy, contributed to the community's worst flood, and most recently has become appreciated as part of one of the most biologically diverse . . . — — Map (db m175394) HM
Union City in the latter half of the 19th century became a furniture manufacturing center of national reputation. Companies included Union City Chair, Ethan Allen, Shreve Furniture, Eastman Furniture, Enterprise Chair Works, Globe Furniture, . . . — — Map (db m175391) HM
Settled in 1797 and established as Union City in 1871 after being named Miles Mills and Union Mills. The Historic District comprises more than 100 buildings erected between 1865 and 1925. Placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990. — — Map (db m175390) HM
North Main Street has been Union City's commercial hub throughout its history, and its architecture was a significant contributing factor to the inclusion of the Union City Borough Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places in . . . — — Map (db m175392) HM
Noted writer; biographer of Lincoln, historian of Standard Oil; born Nov. 5, 1857, in her grandfather's log home at Hatch Hollow, about two miles to east. She died Jan. 6, 1944, at Bridgeport, Connecticut. — — Map (db m64580) HM
Near Titusville. The Park and Museum are owned by the State. On the site Col. Edwin Drake struck oil Aug. 27, 1859, marking the birth of the petroleum industry. Historical and museum material center. — — Map (db m64581) HM
A Memorial to Revolutionary Soldiers Buried in this Vicinity
Aaron Himrod
Micahel Hare
William Boyd
Neal McKay
Capt. John Lytle
Nathaniel Mallory
Charles Martin
Capt. Robert King
Henry Reichard
Robert Brotherton
William Hood . . . — — Map (db m132388) WM
Civil War hero was born at the NW corner of First & Cherry Streets. A major turning point in the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg resulted from his independent and decisive action on July 2 in detaching his brigade (including the 83rd Pa. Regiment) to . . . — — Map (db m31995) HM
This property has been
placed on the
National Register
of Historic Places
by the United States
Department of the Interior
October 28, 1977
— — Map (db m116911) HM
Three forts have stood on this site. French fort, built 1753, to guard road into Ohio Valley, abandoned 1759. British fort built in 1760, burned by Indians in 1763. American fort to protect settlers, built 1794. — — Map (db m31978) HM
This monument marks the site of
Fort Le Boeuf
Erected by the French in 1752.
George Washington
As a major representing the governor
of Virginia, came here in 1753, bearing
a letter to the commander of the
fort, warning the . . . — — Map (db m32011) HM