ERIE, PA — The U.S. Brig Niagara, an enduring emblem of Pennsylvania’s maritime legacy and a pivotal player in the War of 1812, is preparing for a significant journey to Cleveland, Ohio. Under the stewardship of Captain Greg Bailey, the vessel will set sail from Erie to undergo vital repairs and maintenance at a shipyard, marking the first of two planned restorative projects.
Once in Cleveland, the Niagara will be stationed for approximately one to two weeks in a dry dock facility, where it will receive a series of essential upgrades. Among the key undertakings is the replacement of the ship’s existing propellers with new Max-prop variable pitch propellers, expected to enhance both performance and efficiency. The retired propellers will be returned to the Erie Maritime Museum as historical artifacts.
Further maintenance will involve a comprehensive pressure wash of the hull, followed by a meticulous inspection to identify and address any planking defects through replacement and repainting. Additionally, the ship’s drivetrain components, such as shafts, struts, and bearings, will be refurbished or replaced as necessary. Critical inspections and repairs will also be conducted on fuel tanks, through-hull fittings, and zinc anodes.
A certified marine surveyor with expertise in wooden ship construction and restoration will be contracted to conduct a detailed assessment of the Niagara during its time in the shipyard. This evaluation aims to uncover any additional repair needs, particularly those obscured below the waterline, to be integrated into a subsequent, more comprehensive shipyard project scheduled for the fall.
Following the completion of the current shipyard work, the U.S. Brig Niagara will undergo a thorough inspection by the U.S. Coast Guard before being relaunched and returning to Erie. There, winter maintenance will focus primarily on the rigging above the topmast shrouds, areas that have not been serviced in recent years.
In preparation for the ship’s second shipyard visit in 2025, the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) is actively procuring the requisite services and materials for extensive repairs and enhancements. Planned improvements include repairing the damaged stem, replacing the waterway timber, and addressing rot in the bulwarks’ planking. The installation of new engines, electrical generators, and updated wiring systems will also be integral to this phase, as will the remediation of any further structural issues identified during the initial visit.
The PHMC is committed to equipping the Niagara with advanced technology and safety features to ensure its continued role as a training platform for aspiring mariners and an educational attraction for visitors. Collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guard is ongoing to guarantee that all restoration efforts meet stringent safety and regulatory standards.
The aim is to have the U.S. Brig Niagara fully restored and ready to sail in Erie in time for the Commonwealth’s Semiquincentennial celebration, preserving its historical integrity while enhancing its functional capabilities for future generations.
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