Raising Niagara - Project Algerine

This episode discusses the history of the USS Niagara, a ship built in Erie during the War of 1812. After the war, the Niagara was intentionally sunk and remained at the bottom of Misery Bay for 97 years until it was raised for a celebration in honor of Oliver Hazard Perry. The ship was reconstructed and outfitted with new equipment, and became a popular attraction during the Perry Centennial celebration.

Highlights
🚢 The USS Niagara was built in Erie during the War of 1812 and played a crucial role in the Battle of Lake Erie.
🌊 The Niagara was intentionally sunk in Misery Bay in 1820 and remained at the bottom for 97 years.
🎉 A celebration was planned for the Perry Centennial in 1913, which involved raising and reconstructing the Niagara.
🛠️ A local shipbuilder and his team went over every inch of the ship and reused whatever original pieces they could for the reconstruction.
🎆 The Perry Centennial was the largest city-wide celebration that the city of Erie had ever experienced and drew crowds from all over the country.
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 The ship had to be towed into position as there was no crew to help sail it.
📈 News reports of the ship's reconstruction were increasing, and the June 28, 1913 edition of Scientific American featured Niagara's amazing reconstruction.

Music by Karl Casey @ Whitebat Audio