Why is it called Niagara? The History of the USS Niagara in Put-in-Bay

When visitors arrive at Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island in Lake Erie, they’re stepping onto hallowed ground where one of the most decisive naval battles in American history unfolded. The USS Niagara, a wooden warship that changed the course of the War of 1812, is intrinsically linked to this island paradise. But have you ever wondered why this famous ship bears the name “Niagara”?

The Meaning Behind the Name

The name “Niagara” comes from the Iroquoian word “Onguiaahra,” which means “the strait” or “neck of land.” Another interpretation suggests it means “Thundering Waters.” The name appears on maps dating back to 1641 and originally referred to the waterway connecting Lakes Erie and Ontario—what we now call the Niagara River.

For a warship built to defend Lake Erie in 1813, the name was both geographically appropriate and symbolically powerful. Just as Niagara Falls represented the raw power of nature, the USS Niagara would demonstrate American naval might on the Great Lakes.

Building a Fleet in the Wilderness

In September 1812, merchant Daniel Dobbins arrived in Washington, D.C., with urgent news: Lake Erie’s coastline was vulnerable to British attack. After convincing President James Madison and Secretary of the Navy Paul Hamilton, Dobbins secured permission to build a fleet in the protected bay at Erie, Pennsylvania.

The USS Niagara was launched on July 4, 1813, constructed from fresh “green” timber with wooden pins called treenails because iron was scarce. The ship was a two-masted brig armed with eighteen carronades and two long guns—built for close-quarters combat rather than long-range dueling.

Put-in-Bay: The Stage for Victory

On August 17, 1813, Commander Oliver Hazard Perry’s fleet, including the Niagara, anchored at Put-in-Bay. Perry met with General William Henry Harrison here, agreeing to use the island as a strategic base. Put-in-Bay’s protected harbor made it the perfect staging ground for what would become one of America’s greatest naval victories.

On the morning of September 10, 1813, British ships were spotted beyond Rattlesnake Island. The Battle of Lake Erie was about to begin.

The Dramatic Battle

Perry’s flagship, the USS Lawrence, led the charge into battle, but it took devastating damage from British cannon fire. In one of the most dramatic moments in naval history, Perry transferred to the Niagara mid-battle, rowing across open water under enemy fire while carrying his famous battle flag emblazoned with the words “Don’t Give Up the Ship.”

Once aboard the Niagara, Perry directed devastating broadsides into the Royal Navy ships until victory was secured. By 3:00 PM, Perry penned his famous message to General Harrison: “We have met the enemy and they are ours.”

The victory gave the United States control of Lake Erie and forced the British to abandon Fort Malden, turning the tide of the War of 1812 in the Northwest.

After the Battle

Following the war, the Niagara served in the Lake Huron Campaign in 1814 before returning to Erie. When the Rush-Bagot Agreement called for disarmament of the Great Lakes, the ship’s fighting days were over.

In 1820, the Niagara was intentionally sunk in Misery Bay to preserve the hull for potential future use. That moment came nearly a century later when, for the centennial of the Battle of Lake Erie, the Niagara was raised from Misery Bay in April 1913.

A Living Monument

Today, the USS Niagara is usually docked at the Erie Maritime Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, but travels the Great Lakes each summer as Pennsylvania’s official state ship. The reconstruction incorporates some original timber, though multiple restorations over the decades mean it’s become something of a “Ship of Theseus”—philosophically the same vessel, physically rebuilt.

Visit Put-in-Bay and Experience History

When you visit Put-in-Bay today, you’re walking in the footsteps of heroes. The island offers numerous ways to connect with this rich naval heritage:

Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial

No visit to Put-in-Bay is complete without ascending Perry’s Monument, the 352-foot Doric column that towers over Lake Erie. The memorial is taller than the Statue of Liberty and commemorates both the American victory and the lasting peace between the United States, Great Britain, and Canada.

Plan Your Visit:

• Adults: $10 for observation deck access (free with National Park passes)
• The visitor center includes exhibits and a compelling film about the battle
• Open mid-May through mid-October
• Book tickets at the visitor center or through Recreation.gov

Wine Tasting on the Island

Put-in-Bay has a rich winemaking heritage dating back to the 1800s. The Lake Erie Islands were known as the “Wine Islands,” producing excellent Catawba, Concord, Niagara, and Riesling grapes.

Heineman Winery is a must-visit destination. They specialize in sweet and ice wines, with favorites including Pink Catawba and Niagara grape wines. The winery tour includes access to Crystal Cave, which contains the world’s largest geode—a stunning natural wonder beneath the winery.

Tours combine wine tasting with cave exploration, and you can enjoy samples in their wine garden. It’s the perfect way to toast to history and enjoy the island’s unique terroir.

Getting There

Put-in-Bay is accessible via ferry from Port Clinton and Sandusky, Ohio. The Jet Express and Miller Ferry both provide regular service during the season. Once on the island, golf cart rentals are the preferred way to explore—part of the island’s unique charm.

A Name That Echoes Through Time

The USS Niagara earned its name from a powerful Native American word meaning “the strait” or “thundering waters.” It proved worthy of that powerful name on September 10, 1813, when it helped secure one of the most complete victories in American naval history.

Today, whether you’re climbing Perry’s Monument, tasting wines made from Niagara grapes, or simply enjoying the island’s beauty, you’re experiencing a place where the name “Niagara” represents not just power, but the courage and determination that defined a pivotal moment in American history.

Put-in-Bay isn’t just a summer destination—it’s a living memorial to the men who fought for control of Lake Erie and changed the course of a war. Come for the history, stay for the wine, and leave with a deeper appreciation for why the name “Niagara” still resonates more than two centuries later.

Ready to explore Put-in-Bay? The island offers year-round ferry service (seasonal schedule), numerous accommodations, and dozens of attractions beyond those mentioned here. Plan your visit today and discover why this small island holds such an enormous place in American history.