Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) today announced a transition in leadership for the U.S. Brig Niagara as the vessel prepares for its highly anticipated return to homeport and its next chapter of service.
After guiding the ship through the critical phase of its preservation, Captain Greg Bailey has announced his resignation as the Niagara’s Master, effective June 1, 2026. PHMC fully supports his decision and expresses its deepest gratitude for his excellent stewardship of the Commonwealth’s flagship.
To command the vessel for her voyage home, PHMC has appointed Interim Captain Richard Bailey (no relation). Interim Captain Richard Bailey has over 45 years of experience commanding tall ships, including 16 years as the Master of the H.M.S. Rose.
“The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission is deeply grateful that Captain Greg Bailey chose to lead the U.S. Brig Niagara through her critical refit,” said Melissa Mann, Director of the Bureau of Historic Sites and Museums. “We are incredibly pleased with the exceptional work he accomplished during this complex phase of the ship's preservation. His efforts will ensure Niagara sails for years to come. We thank him for his dedication and wish him and his family the very best.”
The extensive repair phase in Maine is nearing a successful completion under Captain Bailey’s oversight. PHMC’s focus remains on maintaining operational continuity. Captain Greg Bailey will continue with the ship through the end of May to conduct a direct, professional handover as the refit officially wraps up.
Securing Permanent Leadership
Interim leadership ensures the ship will remain in highly capable hands. Given the highly specialized nature of commanding a 19th-century square-rigged sailing vessel, the agency is currently seeking an exceptionally qualified successor to ensure a confident and stable transition as the Niagara sails into her next era of service.
In the interim, PHMC is focused on the return transit of the U.S. Brig Niagara, the subsequent uprigging of the vessel, and the completion of the U.S. Coast Guard’s Certificate of Inspection. With a transition plan firmly in place, the ship and her sailing program are well-positioned for an enriching and highly successful future.
About the Erie Maritime Museum and the U.S. Brig Niagara
The Erie Maritime Museum is a community gathering place that welcomes audiences of all abilities and backgrounds to gather and experience the maritime history & heritage of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, including civilian activity, innovation, military service, and the contributions of Pennsylvanians to the Great Lakes industry and our environment.
The U.S. Brig Niagara is a historically accurate reconstruction of the brig commanded by Master Commandant Oliver Hazard Perry in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. Operated by the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission from her homeport at the Erie Maritime Museum, the Niagara sails as a sailing school vessel, goodwill ambassador, and a symbol of Pennsylvania's rich maritime heritage.
The Erie Maritime Museum is administered by the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) and is one of 23 historic sites and museums that make up the Pennsylvania Trails of History. To learn more, visit Museums | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission is the official history agency of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Learn more by visiting PHMC online or following us on Facebook, X, Instagram or LinkedIn.