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Ahoy Landlubbers!

This is the essential tour of Erie Maritime Museum and, when available, the U.S. Brig Niagara. Students learn the origins of the often forgotten War of 1812, how cannons were fired and see first-hand the devastating effects of 1812-era ordinance upon wooden ships. They can feel the weight of the cannon balls and try their hand at a few sailor’s knots.

Time: 1 ½ to 2 hours (1 hr museum only)

Home Portable Erie

Through this exciting, hands-on learning opportunity sponsored by the Flagship Niagara League and Erie Maritime Museum, students may enter the life of an 1813 veteran of the Battle of Lake Erie by reading his journal and rummaging the contents of his sea bag. Through a sailor or soldier's vivid description and reproduction artifacts they can handle, students can learn of the 1813 ship-building effort and life aboard Niagara. The journals** are based on real biographies of crew who served in the 1813 Lake Erie Fleet.

*Small donation to Flagship Niagara League is requested; reserve in advance.

**Three versions of Home Portable Erie will be available - two for distribution to classrooms and one based in the museum that will include additional items, including 1813 reproduction clothing the students may try on.

Bibliographies and Recommended Readings

Presentations

Talks in the classroom or for your organization or business discussing the following topics:

• The Story of the U.S. Brig Niagara (with slides)

• Overview of Erie's Maritime Heritage (slides)

• Life as a sailor in 1813: First person interpretation in period dress

• Naval medicine in the War of 1812