Events

The Girard Sunflower gardens are open. The events have ended for this year, but the fields are open. Thank you for all your support! The fields will be open as long as the sunflowers bloom.

The Girard Sunflower gardens are open. The events have ended for this year, but the fields are open. Thank you for all your support! The fields will be open as long as the sunflowers bloom.

The Girard Sunflower gardens are open. The events have ended for this year, but the fields are open. Thank you for all your support! The fields will be open as long as the sunflowers bloom.

The Girard Sunflower gardens are open. The events have ended for this year, but the fields are open. Thank you for all your support! The fields will be open as long as the sunflowers bloom.

The Girard Sunflower gardens are open. The events have ended for this year, but the fields are open. Thank you for all your support! The fields will be open as long as the sunflowers bloom.

The Girard Sunflower gardens are open. The events have ended for this year, but the fields are open. Thank you for all your support! The fields will be open as long as the sunflowers bloom.

Learn how to sculpt a beautiful sunflower charcuterie tray in a one-of-a-kind class led by artist and Main Street Art owner Eliza Wolfe, while experiencing the beauty of the sunflower fields.
This outdoor class will take place in the sunflower fields between the Hagen History Center White House and Yellow House. Please wear appropriate footwear. The class will be held rain or shine. In the event of rain, the class will be moved indoors to the Yellow House.

Friday, August 14 | Saturday, August 15
7:00 p.m.
Only 1 seat left on August 14
Gather your friends, family, or that special someone and celebrate the magic of sunflowers. Join us for an unforgettable and all-inclusive, 5-course Farm-to-Table dinner. This is our only Farm-to-Table dining experience this year.
The event is limited to only 20 seats. Reserve your spot today. Rain contingency is in place at the Yellow House.
$150 per person all-inclusive.

Friday, August 14 | Saturday, August 15
7:00 p.m.
Only 1 seat left on August 14
Gather your friends, family, or that special someone and celebrate the magic of sunflowers. Join us for an unforgettable and all-inclusive, 5-course Farm-to-Table dinner. This is our only Farm-to-Table dining experience this year.
The event is limited to only 20 seats. Reserve your spot today. Rain contingency is in place at the Yellow House.
$150 per person all-inclusive.

Join us August 13 and 14 on the campus of Gannon University for a series of discussions by noted Oliver Hazard Perry historians.

Join artist Simone Welsh, M.F.A., in painting your own beautiful sunflower serving tray in a truly one-of-a-kind setting!
All art materials and a light continental breakfast will be provided.
Meet at 9:15am at the Hagen History Center Yellow House
This outdoor class will take place in the sunflower fields between the Hagen History Center White House and Yellow House. Please wear appropriate footwear. The class will be held rain or shine. In the event of rain, the class will be moved indoors to the Yellow House.
This is an outdoor class, taking place in the sunflower fields between the Hagen History Center White House and Yellow House. Please wear appropriate footwear. This class takes place rain or shine. In the event of rain, the class will be moved indoors to the Yellow House.

Join us August 13 and 14 on the campus of Gannon University for a series of discussions by noted Oliver Hazard Perry historians.

SOLD OUT
Wine + Charcuterie Picnic in the Sunflowers
Cost $120 per couple. Limited to 16 people (8 couples) each night. Rain contingency is in place at the Yellow House.

SOLD OUT
Wine + Charcuterie Picnic in the Sunflowers
Cost $120 per couple. Limited to 16 people (8 couples) each night. Rain contingency is in place at the Yellow House.

SOLD OUT
Wine + Charcuterie Picnic in the Sunflowers
Cost $120 per couple. Limited to 16 people (8 couples) each night. Rain contingency is in place at the Yellow House.

Current Hagen History Center members are invited to our Annual Member Picnic & Meeting at the beautiful Battles White House in Girard.
Enjoy charcuterie, drinks, and the stunning sunflower gardens while connecting with fellow members and celebrating another year of preserving Erie County history. The evening will also include our annual History Awards presentation and a taste of our new sunflower liquor.
Tuesday, August 11
306 Walnut St., Girard, PA
5:30-8:00 p.m. Free to current members.
We hope to see you among the sunflowers!

SOLD OUT
Wine + Charcuterie Picnic in the Sunflowers
Cost $120 per couple. Limited to 16 people (8 couples) each night. Rain contingency is in place at the Yellow House.

Join us as we kick off Girard Sunflower Festival Week with an unforgettable evening of music during a FREE Erie Philharmonic Double Quartet concert on Sunday, August 9 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. amid the sunflowers at the beautiful Battles Yellow House, part of the Hagen History Center.

Celebrate with us in the sunflowers! We’re hosting a garden party for women at the Battles White House, 306 Walnut Street, Girard, PA.

Now in its fifth year, this signature men’s cocktail fundraiser offers an unforgettable night out. Last year, more than 200 guests enjoyed hearty chef‑crafted hors d’oeuvres, a premium open bar, cigars, billiards, and plenty of laid‑back camaraderie.

Betsy Grinder, owner of Your Daily Serving, in Corry, PA, is back at the Yellow House for a hands-on cooking class celebrating one of spring’s brightest flavors—asparagus.

Thursday May 7th, 2026 | 12 pm
Step inside history with a free, guided tour thanks to VisitErie! Explore the stories of the Watson-Curtze Mansion and the Wood-Morrison House during a 1.5-hour immersive experience.

Step inside history with a free, guided tour thanks to VisitErie! Explore the stories of the Watson-Curtze Mansion and the Wood-Morrison House during a 1.5-hour immersive experience.

What will cities of the future look like? Architect Robert Heineman, FAIA, will share his insights from his work on the development of The Woodlands, Texas, one of the nation’s most influential master-planned cities.

When we tie our shoes, we don’t think about the history of rope, but did you know rope has ties to prehistoric times in knots, pulleys, winches, and other tools? It also has a more current connection to outer space elevators. Learn more when Tim Queeney, the author of Rope: How a Bundle of Twisted Fibers Became the Backbone of Civilization, comes to the Jefferson Educational Society. Queeney, the former editor of Ocean Navigator, will bring his adventures and exploration as a researcher, author, teacher, and teacher aboard tall ships to life on April 22.

Sorry, this one sold out. Stay tuned for the next one!
We are ramping up our cooking classes with a local spring favorite: Garlic Ramps
Hosted by Chef Sahil Luthra & Simone Welsh

This class, hosted by Full Circle Winery will include an interactive cooking session with Chef Sahil with recipes for:

Appalachian Mountain inspired Creamy Ramp Bisque
Served along with a Crostini with Ramp Pistou, Bacon Lardons, Ricotta.
Food to be paired with an Interactive cocktail making session with Simone Welsh.
Cocktail featured is Ramp Gibson

Four-Course Australian Dinner – Tuesday, February 10
First Course Garlic Prawns
Second Course: Pork & Vegetable Sausage Rolls
Main Course: Please select one: Kangaroo with Australian Shiraz Sauce, served alongside Parmesan Risotto OR Barramundi with Orange Beurre Blanc, served alongside Parmesan Risotto
Dessert: Classic Pavlova
Accompaniment: Traditional Damper — flame-baked Australian soda bread

Do you have cherished memories of skiing, celebrating, or working at the beloved family-owned Wilderness Lodge? Founded in 1969 by James and Nansi Janes, it’s been part of so many special moments—and we’d love to hear yours!
Share your stories during a special exhibit opening reception with
Roger Janes at the Hagen History Center on January 30, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
The exhibit will be open in the Watson-Curtze Mansion from Jan. 16 to May 30.

World War II Comes to Life at the History Center
Siege of Bastogne / Battle of the Bulge Reenactment
Date: January 17, 2026
Tickets for the day-long event must be purchased in our gift shop.
Location: Hagen History Center, 356 W. 6th St., Erie Pa
Step back in time to December 1944, when American soldiers were trapped in snowy Bastogne, Belgium, during one of World War II’s most pivotal moments—the Battle of the Bulge. Despite being outnumbered and surrounded, the 101st Airborne Division held strong until reinforcements from General Patton’s Third Army broke through, securing an Allied victory.
Experience history like never before as we transform our campus into Bastogne!
What You’ll See & Do:
Interact with 20 reenactors from the 99th Infantry Division, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment (82nd Airborne), and 11th Panzer Division
Explore authentic equipment and vehicles from the era
Watch battle strategy demonstrations
Participate in role-playing missions like stealing secret plans and delivering them to the Allies
Learn equipment handling and training basics
Tour authentic encampments and field quarters
Gain insights into the life of a soldier during the Battle of the Bulge

Schedule:

10:00 AM Presentation on the Battle of the Bulge in the 2nd floor conference room of Wood Morrison by Mark Squeglia and Roman Straub. REGISTRATION CLOSED
11:30 AM Presentation on the Battle of the Bulge in the 2nd floor conference room of Wood Morrison by Mark Squeglia and Roman Straub. REGISTRATION CLOSED
1:00 PM Germans provide surrender terms to American Units outside in the area between the Wood Morrison House and the Watson Curtze Mansion
2:45 PM Presentation on the Battle of the Bulge in the 2nd floor conference room of Wood Morrison by Mark Squeglia and Roman Straub. REGISTRATION CLOSED
4:15 PM Germans provide surrender terms to American Units outside in the area between the Wood Morrison House and the Watson-Curtze Mansion
4:45 PM Ceremony to honor the veterans of Erie County who served in the Battle of the Bulge. We will read the names of Erie County residents that lost their lives in the battle and have a bugler play Taps
5:00 PM End of Event

American equipment demonstrations and German equipment demonstrations occurring from 10 AM to 4 PM

Don’t miss this immersive tribute to courage and history!
Interact with 20 reenactors from the 99th Infantry Division, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment (82nd Airborne), and 11th Panzer Division
Explore authentic equipment and vehicles from the era
Watch battle strategy demonstrations
Participate in role-playing missions like stealing secret plans and delivering them to the Allies
Learn equipment handling and training basics
Tour authentic encampments and field quarters
Gain insights into the life of a soldier during the Battle of the Bulge
Tickets for the day-long event must be purchased in our gift shop.

Mark Your Calendar! Enjoy live performances by the Erie Day School Show Choir while you tour our beautifully decorated mansion.

Mark Your Calendar! Enjoy our beautifully decorated mansion with a live performance by the Mercyhurst Prep Show Choir at 1:30 p.m.

Sorry! This event is sold out.
Back by popular demand — our Wassail Class is returning to the Yellow House on December 9 and trust us… it always sells out!
Join the talented team from Full Circle Winery for a festive evening of flavor and tradition. You’ll learn how to make cozy winter beverages, and we'll have the winery's famous charcuterie on hand while you sip and stir.
Every guest takes home:
• A spice sachet
• Recipe cards
Limited seating — only 16 seats, so grab your spot before it’s gone!

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED
Exhibit Guest Curator Bobby J. Sulecki shares his research for The Story of Us, Erie Polonia: Churches and Neighborhoods Nov. 12 from 4:30 to 5:30 pm.
The presentation will take place in the Watson-Curtze Mansion.
The exhibit is on display on the second floor of the Wood-Morrison House, (the building east of the mansion) The exhibit includes an interesting timeline, artifacts and memories that touch on the early Polish churches and neighborhoods. For more information and to register, click on the Event info link below.

The Story of Us, Erie Polonia: Churches and Neighborhoods
Curated by Bobby Sulecki
Explore Erie’s rich Polish heritage faith, neighborhoods, and the churches that built community.
Wood Morrison House – 2nd Floor
338 West 6th Street, Erie, PA
October 1 through January 30, 2026
The exhibit is on display on the second floor of the Wood-Morrison House, (the building east of the mansion) The exhibit includes an interesting timeline, artifacts and memories that touch on the early Polish churches and neighborhoods:
St. Stanislaus, 13th and Wallace
Holy Trinity, 2220 Reed
St. Hedwig, 521 E 3rd
St. Casimir, 629 Hess
The exhibit is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sundays, noon to 5 pm. It is free to members of the Hagen History Center and guest admission is $12.
Opening Reception: October 2, 5–7 PM
Join us in celebrating the vibrant legacy of Erie’s Polish-American community!

We’re doing it AGAIN! Back by popular demand, mushroom expert Josh Mowris is leading another magical Yellow House Trail Forage!

Kick things off with mushroom truffle pizza + drinks, then grab your basket and hit the trail with us.

Learn how to spot fall mushrooms, discover tasty recipe ideas, and unlock the secrets of their medicinal powers!

Save the Date: RAIN DATE Oct. 2 | 4–6 PM

Savor the Season
We’re back with an extraordinary farm-to-table dining experience on September 25 and Sept. 26 at the beautifully renovated White House, 306 Walnut St., Girard.
Join us under the stars for an unforgettable Erie Club five-course feast showcasing the very best of summer’s harvest. Each dish is thoughtfully paired with fine wines.
We’re proud to showcase the flavors of over six local farms, all within 55 miles of our table.
Seats are limited, so reserve your place at the table today!
Dinner Menu:
1st Course
Grilled Lake Erie Walleye served with grilled zucchini & yellow squash | tomato basil beurre blanc
2nd Course
Sweet Corn Bisque with charred scallions | red pepper | croutons
3rd Course
Beet, plum, arugula, and goat cheese salad
4th Course
Heritage Smoked Pork Chop served with roasted red bliss potatoes | concord grape demi-glaze
5th Course
Grilled Peach Shortbread with warm biscuit | vanilla ice cream | cinnamon honey | lavender-scented whipped cream
$150 per guest | Only 22 seats available each night

Savor the Season
We’re back with an extraordinary farm-to-table dining experience on September 25 and Sept. 26 at the beautifully renovated White House, 306 Walnut St., Girard.
Join us under the stars for an unforgettable Erie Club five-course feast showcasing the very best of summer’s harvest. Each dish is thoughtfully paired with fine wines.
We’re proud to showcase the flavors of over six local farms, all within 55 miles of our table.
Seats are limited, so reserve your place at the table today!
Dinner Menu:
1st Course
Grilled Lake Erie Walleye served with grilled zucchini & yellow squash | tomato basil beurre blanc
2nd Course
Sweet Corn Bisque with charred scallions | red pepper | croutons
3rd Course
Beet, plum, arugula, and goat cheese salad
4th Course
Heritage Smoked Pork Chop served with roasted red bliss potatoes | concord grape demi-glaze
5th Course
Grilled Peach Shortbread with warm biscuit | vanilla ice cream | cinnamon honey | lavender-scented whipped cream
$150 per guest | Only 22 seats available each night

Thank you for all your support!

HURRY TO SIGN UP! Ride through history Sept. 4!
Join us for a scenic 8-mile bike adventure through beautiful Edinboro—where every stop tells a story! Where we'll go:
Miracles on Maple Hill /Virginia Sorensen
Lakeside Farms
Edinboro Grange
Edinboro Area Historical Society
Waldo "Pop" Bates
PennWest
Sunset camps
Curtze homestead
The Canoe Club
Expect surprises, special guests, and fascinating tales along the way, all led by the amazing duo Michelee Covelli Curtze & Tom New!
Parking available at Edinboro 814 Bike Shop / YAAS Mercantile—just roll up and get ready to ride!
Bring your bike, your curiosity, and your love for local history. Let’s make some memories on wheels!
Pease wear a helmet.