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Get to Know the Hagen History Center - Where History Inspires

Tuesday Jul 5th, 2022

The Hagen History Center, formerly known as the Erie County Historical Society, is a museum campus located in downtown Erie with a focus on the history of Erie County over the past 200 years. The Hagen History Center is named for Erie native and chief benefactor Captain Thomas Bailey Hagen, SC (USN, ret.), who grew up directly across the street from the Hagen History Center.  The campus is comprised of the Watson-Curtze Mansion, Wood-Morrison House, the Carriage House, the New Exhibit building and the King-Mertens Archive building. For Hagen History Center hours and information click here.  

HagenHistoryCenter 2 from Hagen

Watson-Curtze Mansion

Built in 1891 by paper manufacturer Harrison F. Watson (1853-1904) and his wife Carrie and daughter Winifred, the mansion features 24 rooms of impressive architecture, stained-glass windows, mosaics, fireplaces, a ballroom and solarium.  After Watson’s wife Carrie died, Frederic Felix Curtze (1858-1941), a bank president and industry leader, bought the home and lived there with his family.  The mansion exhibits include Winfred Watson’s childhood bedroom, a Victorian dress display, Civil War gallery, servant’s quarters, Eugene Iverd exhibit and Waldameer Park memorabilia room. Photo provided by the Hagen History Center.

Wood Morrison provided by Historical Society

Wood-Morrison House

This historic house predates the Watson-Curtze Mansion and was built next to the Erie Extension Canal. Dr. William Maxwell Wood built the house in 1858. He served onboard the USS Michigan, the U.S. Navy's first iron-hulled warship. The Wood-Morrison House exhibits include the Erie Extension Canal, the Weschler Gallery of Military Service and the pot that was used to boil Mad Anthony Wayne’s bones. 
Photo provided by the Hagen History Center.

FrankLloydWright Exhibit from Hagen

New Exhibit Building

Built in 2019 specifically to showcase new exhibits, the appropriately named building’s most popular exhibit is Frank Lloyd Wright’s original San Francisco Office. Completely rebuilt in Erie, visitors are able to walk through the world-famous architect’s office, which he used when he tended to Bay Area projects from 1951 until his death in 1959. Other exhibits include Wright’s 17-foot Butterfly Bridge model, and a welcome gallery featuring Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s telescope and sword from the Battle of Lake Erie. Pictured: Frank Lloyd Wright's San Francisco Office, provided by the Hagen History Center.

Carriage House provided by Historical Society

Carriage House Visitor Center and Gift Shop

The carriage house belonged to the Watson family and housed transportation vehicles from carriages to cars throughout its service.  The carriage house includes the gift shop, research area, reading room and library with more than 5,800 books published in the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries.  Photo provided by the Hagen History Center.

King-Mertens Archive Building

This building’s houses archival material, diaries, letters, correspondence, books, typescripts, reports, photographs and other historical resources including information on the history of Erie County as well as the Robert J. MacDonald Great Lakes maritime history. Visits to the archive building are by appointment only.

Partner Spotlight

CartHorse Spotlight 400 x 300

Cart/Horse

Cart/Horse Distilling is a first-generation woman-owned distillery, pioneering the craft in Edinboro, Pennsylvania. Handcrafted care never goes out of style. We put that artistic attention into every bottle of our small batch spirits. Cart/Horse proudly produces rum, whiskey, vodka, gin, and several award-winning specialty liquors. Our robust cocktail menu uses the finest and freshest ingredients for each custom-built drink.

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mazza spotlight

Mazza Vineyards and the South Shore Wine Company

The Mazza family welcomes you to explore 3 unique locations in Lake Erie Wine Country. Sip and savor award-winning wines at Mazza Vineyards and the historic South Shore Wine Company, both located in North East, PA, and be sure to visit their combination winery, distillery and brewery, Mazza Chautauqua Cellars/Five & 20 Spirits and Brewing, in nearby Westfield, NY.

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Millcreek Mall

The Millcreek Mall features more than 160 stores, restaurants, and fun for the whole family on Upper Peach Street, Erie’s most popular shopping district! Shopping in Erie means no sales tax on clothing or shoes. Choose from a variety of hotels located on the Mall property and just minutes away at the intersection of Peach Street and Interstate 90.

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The Cork 1794

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The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern

Join us today! The Cove Bay-Side Restaurant & Tavern is sure to give you an unforgettable and care-free dining experience. Enjoy a nautical atmosphere with a beautiful view of Presque Isle Bay.

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U Pick 6 Craft Beer Pubs & Restaurants

Erie’s own local craft beer pubs are a must-visit! With 4 great locations, just pick one that’s convenient for you! A casual, family friendly dining experience with something for everyone! To view our menu, check out what’s on tap, or get to directions to our pubs, learn more now!”

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Outdoor Dining at the Bayfront Grille

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UPMC Hamot - See What Makes Us Different

UPMC Hamot is a 423-bed hospital in Erie, PA, offering a full complement of inpatient and outpatient services, and serves as a regional referral hub and Level II Trauma Center.

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Erie Events

Erie Events manages a four facility entertainment complex that includes the Warner Theatre, Erie Insurance Arena, Bayfront Convention Center and UPMC Park. These four venues host a variety of events that include world-class entertainment, family friendly shows and sporting events.

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When you have an opportunity to fly, give Erie a try - support your hometown airport!

Direct Daily Flights to Charlotte and Chicago.
Erie International Airport is serviced by American Airlines and United Airlines with daily flights to Charlotte and Chicago with connections across the country and around the world. Book your flight today at www.aa.com or www.united.com

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Dobbins Landing

Located on the southeast shore of Lake Erie, the Port of Erie has been promoting industrial, commercial, and recreational opportunities on the waters of Lake Erie since 1959.

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Corporate Events Port Farms

Port Farms Corporate Events

Treat your employees to a unique, country experience that is sure to inspire with all of the magic the farm has to offer! Located just outside of Erie, Port Farms offers a charming countryside venue for your next company retreat! Our unique space is located on 200 rural acres and includes everything you will need to host a successful work session, work event, or company picnic. Learn more about how we can help you plan the perfect event!

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