Catching the USS Niagara sailing off the shoreline of Presque Isle State Park
We visited Presque Isle State Park, located near Erie, Pennsylvania, this weekend to relax and hike the many amazing trails after working in the area all weekend. The lucky opportunity arose to capture The USS Niagara sailing off the shoreline of Lake Erie. The Flagship Niagara was built in 1812 and served as the relief flagship for Oliver Hazard Perry in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. It was constructed in 1812 to help protect the American shoreline of Lake Erie from the British.
Oddly, this ship was sunk for preservation off the shores of Presque Isle in 1820 and raised again in 1913. It was rebuilt several times in 1930, 1963 and 1988. The later restoration was a complete overhaul with most of the original ship being replaced. Some enthusiasts consider the current form the USS Niagara a replica due to this massive overhaul in 1988, since it completely removed most original parts of the ship.
Today, the ship sits at the Erie Maritime Museum, serving as the ambassador for the State of Pennsylvania. You can visit the ship docked at the museum, located in Erie’s historic Bayfront District. The museum is open Wednesday thru Saturday and makes a great day trip while visiting the area. One of the most exhilarating aspects of the USS Niagara’s presence at the museum is the opportunity for visitors to embark on a sailing experience like no other. Guided by a skilled crew, guests can join the ship for a variety of interactive programs, including public sails, educational tours, and even hands-on sailing lessons. As the ship glides through the water, visitors can feel the power of the wind in the sails and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by sailors in the 19th century.
It was a rewarding experience taking the time to explore the natural wonders of Presque Isle State Park and take several
photos of this amazing area. This 3,200-acre peninsula boasts sandy beaches, lush forests, and diverse wildlife habitats, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Hiking and biking trails, kayaking opportunities, birdwatching, and picnicking spots are just a few of the activities available within the park.