The Flagship Niagara

Flagship of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the Flagship Niagara is also a major museum “exhibit” when in homeport.

The Niagara in Erie, Pennsylvania, is a reproduction of the relief flagship of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry in a major naval battle of the War of 1812.  On September 10, 1813, nine small ships – six of them, including Niagara, constructed in Erie – defeated a British squadron of six vessels in the Battle of Lake Erie.  A pivotal event in the War of 1812, it secured the Northwest Territory, opened supply lines and lifted the nation’s morale.

The Flagship Niagara is a two-masted, square-rigged sailing vessel.  In 1813 she had a crew of 155 men who manned her sails, 18 carronades and 2 long guns.  Today’s Niagara sails with a crew of 40 (16 professional, 24 volunteer), and carries two 32-pounder carronades.  Original 1813 timbers, which were recovered from the 1913 and 1933 reconstructions, are incorporated into her construction.

The Flagship Niagarais available to tour year round when in port, with access limited at times due to necessary maintenance.  Please check this website for updated information to be sure Niagara is in port and available to tour on the date you plan to visit, or call (814) 452-2744.