Please remember us during Erie Gives Aug. 12

August 12, 2025, will be the 15th annual Erie Gives. Join thousands of donors giving to their favorite nonprofits during this community wide celebration of nonprofits.
This is an event like no other that generates community spirit beyond measure! Collectively, giving last year exceeded $9.7 million. That’s the power of collective giving.
During the past 10 years, there has been transformational change on the campus of the History Center. Thanks to you, the mission continues.
Your donation will help with the operational costs of the History Center.
Go online at www.eriegives.org on AUGUST 12, until midnight and make a donation to the Erie County Historical Society/Hagen History Center.
Donations would be a minimum of $25.
NEW THIS YEAR—thanks to the generosity of The Erie Community Foundation and Erie Gives sponsors, all credit card fees are completely covered! This means that 100% of your donation goes directly to the History Center.
For details, visit here
The Great Key Hunt Returns: details Aug. 15

The Great Key Hunt Returns
Mark your calendars! Our Quizmaster Adam Macrino will share what's coming on Erie News Now at 4 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 15.
How it works: Each week, Adam's team of history buffs shares a riddle that sends participants to a location in Erie County that has bit of history attached to it. At each location, key hunters find a key word or key phrase that they will need to eventually find the final grand prize key (an actual key) that will award one prize of $1,500 to one lucky winner. Last year, thousands of participants of all ages explored the county and learned some inspiring local history. On the final day, hundreds searched our Yellow House property for the actual key.
The game begins with its first hidden clue on Monday, Aug. 18, during the 6 a.m. newscast on Erie News Now. The clues will be presented live on Erie News Now every Monday and can be found on our website and social media every week.
In the 2024 Key Hunt, the winning family — Gary Peterson; his sister, Karen Tobin; Karen’s husband, John Tobin; and Gary and Karen’s mom, Mary Lou Peterson — won the contest by finding the key in under four minutes at the Yellow House.
Stay tuned!
Thanks to our sponsor Erie Federal Credit Union.
Host an Event

Create the wedding or event of your dreams in a Victorian mansion or rustic farmhouse, right in Erie County! Step back in time and enjoy the natural beauty of the Hagen History Center’s grounds for your special day.
Regarded as one of the best wedding and event venues in Erie, Pennsylvania, the Hagen History Center is the perfect backdrop for a Victorian-inspired, unforgettable experience.
Located in Erie, Pa., the Hagen History Center’s West Sixth Street Campus, which includes the Watson-Curtze Mansion and the President’s Room, is conveniently located near downtown Erie, close to hotels and Bayfront attractions. The Hagen’s Girard Campus includes the Yellow House, an elegant farmhouse situated on more than 130 acres.
Upcoming Events
Bike tour: Boro History Ride
05:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Ready to ride through history?
Join us for a scenic 8-mile bike adventure through beautiful Edinboro—where every stop tells a story!
Expect surprises, special guests, and fascinating tales along the way, all led by the amazing duo Michelee Curtze & Tom New!
Parking…
Tom Hagen's 90th Birthday Bash
06:00 PM - 10:00 PM
We are celebrating 90 years of our favorite citizen’s life during a special celebration that will replace our gala this year at 356 West 6th Street.