With many America 250 celebrations now underway, the Erie Maritime Museum is offering public tours of the U.S. Brig Niagara.
After undergoing $7 million in restorations at a shipyard in Maine, the Flagship is now back in Erie following a month-long voyage.
While the Niagara is back at its home port, there is still work to be done before it can sail once again.
According to the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC)—which operates the Flagship—the ship must now be rigged and certified through the U.S. Coast Guard.
“We are actively exploring every avenue to get the Niagara sailing again this fall,” said PHMC Director of Historic Sites and Museums Melissa Mann. “She is as structurally sound and as modernly safe as she can be right now.”
The PHMC is also interviewing several candidates to serve as interim captain and are looking for crew members to operate the vessel.
“As we accomplish that, then we will have her back on the water, serving as she should.” said Mann.
According to the PHMC, it’s going to take a striking balance with the Niagara, moving forward.
“The balance is between one side keeping Niagara here and present for the community, but the other side keeping her voyaging and sailing.” said PHMC Commissioner Cal Pifer.
Public tours of the Niagara continue on July 4, from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. and again on July 5 from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Erie Maritime Museum.