Battle of Lake Erie

cover of the Perry sesquicentennial, Erie, Pa

This souvenir program marks the Perry Sesquicentennial, a celebration held from May 29 through September 10, 1963, in Erie, Pennsylvania, commemorating the 150th anniversary of the construction of Oliver Hazard Perry’s fleet and the consequential Battle of Lake Erie. This pivotal event, led by Perry, significantly influenced the course of the War of 1812, helping to establish lasting borders between the United States and Canada, and solidifying a legacy of peace and cooperation that persists to this day. The program reflects on the strategic and logistical achievements of Perry, underscoring the role of Erie in the American victory and the enduring impact of the battle on U.S.-Canada relations. As we look back, the sesquicentennial serves as a poignant reminder of the deep-rooted values of liberty and human dignity that shaped our nation’s early years and continue to guide us.