Blog

Before and after the attack on Pearl Harbor and America’s entry into World War II, Americans had been enlisting in the military in growing numbers. The total number of Americans that served topped 16 million. Of that number, over 350,000 were women. One such woman was Erie’s Elvira “Vera” Mannarelli.

John "Casey" Wells, Executive Director of Erie County Convention Center Authority (Erie Events) and Board Member of the Warner Theater Preservation Trust will present the History of the Historic Warner Theatre here in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania Historical Museum & Commission has approved 23 new state historical markers. One of the plaques will be dedicated to Charlotte Elizabeth Battles. 

I have been on the lookout to buy some “rural” property lately.  I don’t want anything fancy or expensive but not quite a hunting camp either, just some quiet place to relax.  So, in my efforts to escape the “big” city of Erie, I have been driving around Erie, Crawford and Warren Counties admiring the natural beauty of the region we call home. 

The Nicholsons of Millcreek were among the earliest settlers of Erie County. Irish immigrants John and Isobella Nicholson, so the legend goes, arrived in Erie, on horseback, bundled infant son in tow, in the spring of 1797, and, in true pioneer spirit, cleared a piece of land for themselves on the ridge above the lake (later clearing a road all the way into town), planted crops, operated grain and lumber mills, opened a tavern, and were instrumental in the construction and establishment of more than one of the area’s earliest church.

Harrisburg – PA Museums has announced the winners of its 2021 Special Achievement Awards. Since the 1980s, PA Museums has invited nominations from its membership and chosen institutions, projects, and individuals to be recognized.

Woman’s History Month is one that should be celebrated year-round, not just once each year. The role played by women throughout history deserves more than a month or a short section at the end of each chapter in a history textbook.

Join Betsy MacKrell for a virtual tour of the graves of strong women who forged paths in the wilderness of the Pennsylvania frontier, then in a growing community where roles for women in general and especially women of color were limited. Each of these women overcame the perception that a woman’s place was (and even should be) limited to unseen and largely unappreciated labor.

Are you ready for some mid 19^th Century scandal that happened here in Erie?  It is all connected to a group of most likely well-meaning folks, debt and a cemetery.

After being closed for several months, please plan to join us for the campus-wide Grand Opening of the Hagen History Center scheduled for the weekend of July 16.