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PHMC Announces Brig Niagara Repair Plans, Hopes to Be Ready by 2025

Posted on by angelo

(WJET/WFXP) — The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) announced it has developed a two-phase plan to complete all necessary repairs to the U.S. Brig Niagara, saying it will be completed in time to celebrate America’s 250th birthday.

PHMC announced Wednesday that the Niagara requires structural, hull and systems repairs, which will be carried out at a shipyard, likely in Cleveland.


The PHMC also said it is consulting with former captains Walter Rybka and Wesley Heerssen to help develop those plans while the ship awaits transport.

The first phase of repairs will involve replacing the ship’s two propellers, one of which broke in 2023, ending its season, as well as upgrading the engines while working with the Coast Guard to obtain necessary reviews and approvals.

PHMC said the Niagara will require two custom-built, five-blade, controllable-pitch propellers, putting the shipyard’s expected construction date at the end of August this year. The first phase is expected to take one to two weeks.

On site, a professional marine surveyor will perform an inspection below the waterline as part of a comprehensive ongoing inspection of Niagara‘s current mechanics and maintenance. This study will then allow them to draw up plans for the second, larger phase of the shipyard.

“Niagara “The City of Erie has played a vital role in Erie’s history and is an integral part of its identity,” said Melissa Mann, PHMC’s director of historic sites and museums. “It inspires Pennsylvanians and draws visitors to the Erie area. PHMC’s Erie Maritime Museum staff and professional marine consultants have worked tirelessly to prepare Niagarashipyard experiences to come. We look forward to making the necessary repairs to return Niagara to navigate the Great Lakes”.

While the extent of the repairs needed will not be known until Niagara is brought into a shipyard, PHMC said the second phase of repairs will include at least the following:

  • Stabilization of the ship’s bow and stem assembly
  • Replacement of deteriorated hull planking
  • Restoration of deteriorated timbers above the waterline, including waterway timbers, gun ports and other planking and timbers.
  • Replacement of decking as needed and resealing of the entire decking
  • Electrical system upgrade and installation of new generators
  • Plumbing Upgrades
  • Pump Replacement and Upgrade

JET 24/FOX 66 will continue to report on the status of the U.S. Brig Niaga as information becomes available.