On the Move  follows changes in transportation and its impact on the growth of our community. The development of new or improved forms of transportation and the growth of our community run parallel to each other.  Foot paths evolved into dirt roads which eventually became paved highways.  Speed and efficiency became the primary factor, as new forms of transportation developed and communities grew.  Merchants and manufacturers looked for faster and more efficient ways to move raw materials in for production and finished goods out to the marketplace.  Residents sought more convenient ways to move between work, home, and recreation, resulting in new or better forms of transportation evolving to meet the demand.

As new forms of transportation developed, business centers relocated as a matter of convenience.  Erie’s center of commerce shifted from the waterfront, to along the Erie Extension Canal, to along the railroad tracks.  Manufacturing began to grow in the late 19^th century, and so did available transportation systems.  With transportation becoming more personally convenient with development of the automobile, residents could live farther away from work and shopping, and the suburb grew.

Also, experience the haunting ghost story of “Mad” Anthony Wayne, by seeing the kettle his dead body was boiled in. Enjoy all of the wonders of Erie’s Transportation exhibit on 419 State street! For more information please contact the Historical Society a 814.454.1813 ext 0.