Erie, PA — The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) invites members of the media to the Erie Maritime Museum on Thursday, July 2, to document the official homecoming of the Commonwealth’s flagship, the U.S. Brig Niagara.
Following an extensive $6.9 million restoration and refit funded through a Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of General Services (DGS) Capital Project, the Niagara is returning to her home port. The highly anticipated homecoming will kick off a three-day Independence Day festival celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, sponsored by Erie Insurance.
Media are invited to a formal press event at 3:00 PM featuring remarks from PHMC leadership, Legislators, and community leaders on the historic preservation of the flagship and a preview of the holiday weekend’s festivities.
WHO:
· Hayley Haldeman, Chairwoman, PHMC
· Representative Pat Harkins
· Katie Nagle, District Director, Senator Dan Laughlin
· George Deutsch, Erie Preservationist
· Caleb Pifer, PHMC Commissioner
WHAT:
· Arrival of the U.S. Brig Niagara, subsequent press briefing detailing the completion of her multi-million-dollar preservation refit, and preview of the July 3-5 Independence Day weekend events.
WHEN:
- THURSDAY, July 2, 2026
- Noon to 2:00 PM: Boat Parade – best vantage points:
- The south side of Presque Isle State Park, along Presque Isle Bay (including the Perry Monument and East Pier).
- Perry Monument at Presque Isle
- The North Pier at Presque Isle
- Liberty Park on the city's west bayfront
- Lampe Marina at the foot of the Port Access Road
- Bayview Park near West Second and Cherry streets
- The foot of Holland Street
- The East Avenue boat launch
- Lakeside Recreational Area in Lawrence Park
- 2:30 PM: Press to gather at Erie Maritime Museum indoors while Niagara docks
- 3:00 PM: Press event and official remarks begin
WHERE:
Erie Maritime Museum
150 East Front Street
Erie, PA 16507
VISUALS & B-ROLL OPPORTUNITIES:
- Close-up visuals of the $6.9 million structural upgrades, including the reconstructed white oak bow and newly replaced hull planking.
- On-site preparations for the weekend's 250th-anniversary festivities, which will include Commemorative Air Force aircraft flyovers, and historical demonstrations.
MEDIA RSVP & INQUIRIES:
Press who are interested in attending please RSVP to jlosiewicz@pa.gov.
Please note that access to the ship itself will be restricted during the docking procedure for safety purposes. A PAcast containing high-resolution photos and video of the arrival and press event will be distributed following the event.