Teacher Resources
Erie County Toy Box
What are as old as history, can be found in every culture and are guaranteed to amuse future generations? Toys! Toys are a very important part of history. They reflect social customs, family traditions and technological innovations…
Eries Blackest Day
Just as politics, religion, industry and culture are important aspects of our region’s history; climate and weather have influenced the history of Erie County as well.
Eries Link to Space
Erie County is more than one thousand miles from the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida and Mission Control in Houston, Texas. So, what links Erie to the moon landings of the 1960’s and 70’s, or even NASA astronauts?
Victorian Era in Erie: Part I
There are a variety of Victorian architectural styles that can be found throughout Erie City and County, each with its own distinctive features.
Victorian Era in Erie: Part II
Did you ever stop to wonder…When did bicycles become popular? Where did the people of Erie shop before upper Peach Street was developed? What high fashion magazines did men and women read before Glamour Magazine?
A Good Days Catch: Commercial Fishing Part I
The Lake Erie watershed is a fisherman’s paradise. Fishermen have found success fishing the waters of Lake Erie for centuries because the lake offers a variety of species of fish in great abundance.
A Good Days Catch: Commercial Fishing Part II
Many different industries have contributed to the success and growth of Erie County, but none have used our region’s most important natural resource - Lake Erie - like the commercial fishing industry. The commercial fishing industry began shortly after the War of 1812.
History of Erie Rails
As a result of Erie County’s growing population, and increased trade on the Great Lakes, it became apparent in the mid 1800s to local government officials and regional business leaders that Erie needed improved methods of transportation - Erie’s steamship lines and stagecoaches quickly faded and were replaced by a state-of-the-art electric trolley line and miles of railroad track.
The Settlement of Erie…Town and County
After the American Revolution (1775-1783), the newly formed state of Pennsylvania looked forward to expanding settlement of its western lands. The territory known as the “Erie Triangle,” the northern-most piece of Pennsylvania today, offered access to the Great Lakes and a safe harbor.
Strong Vincent Biography
Strong Vincent is best known for his leadership of soldiers during the Battle of Little Round Top at Gettysburg in July 1863, but to friends and family he was known for much more - a handsome appearance, unquestionable bravery and intelligence.
Wings Over Erie
From the earliest days, humans have dreamed of flying and have attempted to achieve it. Inventors of the 15th century through the 19th century flew using artificial wings, gliders, airships (such as blimps) and hot air balloons.
Famous Women of Erie
Sarah A. Reed was born in 1838, the granddaughter of Erie’s first female settler, Hannah Reed. As an educated woman, Ms. Reed spent most of her life improving the lives of others in the Erie community. In 1871, she helped to form the first welfare agency in Erie.
The Jefferson Educational Society
The Jefferson Educational Society offers non-degree seminars and courses for adults throughout the year. Professional educators and experienced civic leaders offer sessions in the following core areas: Erie Heritage, Liberal Arts, Global Issues, U.S. & World History and Civic Forum Issues.
For additional information, call 814.459.8000 or visit on-line at www.JESerie.org.