The Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial is located on the beautiful South Bass Island in Ohio. This is more than a memorial. It is a celebration of peace between the U.S., Canada, and Great Britain. It is also a great place to hike.
Fun fact: it’s located just 5 miles from the longest undefended border in the world!
Battle of Lake Erie (1813)
During the War of 1812, control of the Great Lakes was crucial for both the United States and Britain. The British Navy had dominance on Lake Erie until American forces, under Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, built a fleet and engaged the British fleet commanded by Captain Robert Barclay.
On September 10, 1813, the two fleets clashed near Put-in-Bay, Ohio. Perry's flagship, the USS Lawrence, suffered heavy damage, prompting him to transfer his command to the USS Niagara. Perry famously carried a battle flag emblazoned with the words "Don't Give Up the Ship," which became a rallying cry for the American forces.
Although the monument bears the name of Oliver Hazard Perry, six officers slain during the battle are interred under its rotunda, Perry himself is buried in Newport, Rhode Island. Beneath the stone floor of the monument lie the remains of those three American officers and three British officers. Carved into the walls inside the rotunda are the names of soldiers and sailors who were killed or injured in the Battle of Lake Erie.
Construction of the Memorial
In 1912, to commemorate the centennial of the Battle of Lake Erie, plans were made to build a memorial. The purpose was not only to honor the American victory but also to celebrate the lasting peace and friendship between the United States, Canada, and Great Britain.
The memorial's design, a Doric column (Doric columns typically have a simple, rounded capital at the top; a heavy, fluted or smooth column shaft; and no base.) rises 352 feet above the Lake Erie shoreline, symbolizes the ideals of peace and reconciliation. It was designed by architect Joseph H. Freelander and completed in 1915. The Doric Column is the only international peace memorial in the United States National Park System and stands 47 feet taller than the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor. The upper deck platform is 12 feet higher than the statue of Liberty's torch.
International Peace Memorial Dedication
Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial was dedicated on June 13, 1915, with ceremonies attended by dignitaries from the United States, Canada, and Great Britain. It remains an important historical and cultural landmark in the region, attracting visitors from around the world.
| Designated | June 2, 1936 |
|---|---|
| Designated | October 15, 1966 (original) April 28, 2015 (increase) |
Today, the memorial is managed by the National Park Service and continues to educate visitors about the historical significance of the War of 1812, Perry's leadership, and the enduring principles of peace and reconciliation.
Grab a park brochure at the visitor center; it’s filled with maps and info that will guide you through the stories hidden in every corner.
Structural concerns
The Memorial had been closed for most of the summer of 2006 after a 500-pound (230 kg) piece of granite broke off the southeast face of the observation deck, falling 315 feet (96 m) and leaving a crater in the plaza in June. No one was injured. Following a structural assessment that deemed it safe for visitors, the memorial reopened on August 26, 2006, with a fence surrounding it.
The monument closed on September 30, 2009 for repairs, and reopened on July 12, 2012.
The monument was closed once again for the summer of 2017 for repairs and cleaning.
Location, Location, Location (And Other Information)
Address:
- The memorial is located at 93 Delaware Ave, Put-in-Bay, OH 43456, United States.
- https://www.nps.gov/pevi/index.htm website through National Park Service
Fees:
- Admission to the park is free.
- Visiting the memorial rotunda is free but to go up the column to the observation deck requires a fee and a timed ticket.
- Timed tickets for the observation deck can only be purchased in the visitor center on the day of your visit: 16 and older are $10, children 15 and younger are free.
- Parking is limited near the memorial and the area is very congested due to the seawall construction. Visit early or park and walk from the visitor center.
- Visitors must walk up 37 steps to the elevator. A National Park Ranger will transport them by elevator to the top. Rangers are stationed at the observation deck to answer questions and speak about the history and surrounding area. Views span Lake Erie, the islands and mainland of Ohio, and nearby islands in Ontario, including Middle Island, the southernmost point of land in Canada, and part of Point Pelee National Park.
- There might be fees associated with parking and ferry transportation to Put-in-Bay.
Ferry Schedule:
- Ferries to Put-in-Bay, where the memorial is located, typically depart from Port Clinton or Catawba Island in Ohio.
- Schedules vary by season and day, so it's best to check with local ferry operators for the most current schedule. Here is an example schedule for Miller Ferry.
Miller Ferry 2024 Schedule
Directions:
From Sandusky, Cleveland, Or Points East Heading West
There are several routes to take to reach your destination. If you’re on I-90/Route 2, continue west until you reach OH-2 West. Cross the Sandusky Bay Bridge and take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Is. From there, head north for approximately 7 miles until you reach the end of OH-53 North.
From The Ohio Turnpike
Take either Exit 118 North (OH-250) or Exit 110 North (OH-4) and then continue onto OH-2 West. Cross the Sandusky Bay Bridge and take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Is. Continue north for approximately 7 miles until you reach the end of OH-53 North.
From Cedar Point
Take OH-6 West to OH-2 West and cross the Sandusky Bay Bridge. Take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Is and continue north for approximately 7 miles until you reach the end of OH-53 North. Be sure to check the Miller Ferry schedule
From Kalahari Resort
Take OH-250 North and then exit left onto OH-2 West. Cross the Sandusky Bay Bridge and take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Is. Continue north for approximately 7 miles until you reach the end of OH-53 North.
From Toledo And Points West
Head east on OH-2 and take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Is. – the Lake Erie Islands. Follow OH-53 North until the end.
If you’re driving on the Ohio Turnpike, take Exit 91 (OH-53) North to OH-2 East. Then, take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Is. and follow OH-53 North until the end.
From Port Clinton
you can take either of these routes: Head east on OH-163 (Perry Street) to OH-53 North. Drive straight for 6 miles until you reach the end of Catawba. Head east on OH-163 to Sand Road, which turns into West Catawba Rd CR-30. Follow this scenic route to the end.
From Columbus
Follow OH-23 North and exit onto OH-4 North/Bucyrus. Then, exit onto OH-2 West and cross the Sandusky Bay Bridge. Take Exit 124 for OH-53 North and follow it until the end. Alternatively, you can exit OH-23 North onto OH-53 North/Fremont. Follow OH-53 North to OH-2 East, and take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Is. – the Lake Erie Islands. Follow OH-53 North until the end.
From Dayton and Cincinnati
Follow OH-75 North to OH-6 East/Bowling Green. Then, take OH-6 East to OH-53 North/Fremont. Follow OH-53 North to OH-2 East, and take Exit 124 for OH-53 North/Catawba Island – the Lake Erie Islands. Follow OH-53 North until the end.
GPS Location For Miller Ferry
GPS Addresses
Port Clinton, Catawba Dock ~ Mainland
5174 E Water St
Port Clinton, OH 43452
Put-in-Bay, Lime Kiln Dock ~ Island
2190 Langram Rd
Put-in-Bay, OH 43456
Once you land on South Bass Island, the memorial is just a short walk away. Make sure to check the ferry schedule ahead of time, especially if you’re visiting during peak summer months!
Trails on South Bass Island
South Bass Island, located in Lake Erie and home to Put-in-Bay, offers several hiking trails that showcase the island's natural beauty and historical landmarks. Here's a brief description of the main trails available:
- Jane Coates Wildflower Trail:
- Length: Approximately 0.5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Description: This trail winds through a wooded area and is known for its diverse array of wildflowers, especially in the spring and early summer. It's a serene walk suitable for all ages and skill levels.
- Scheeff East Point Preserve:
- Length: Around 1.5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Description: This trail offers scenic views of Lake Erie and features a mix of forested paths and open meadows. It's slightly more challenging than the Wildflower Trail but still accessible for most hikers.
- South Bass Island State Park Loop:
- Length: Approximately 1.3 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Description: This loop trail takes you through the state park, offering glimpses of the island's limestone cliffs, groves of trees, and occasional lake views. It's a great option for a relaxed hike with varied scenery.
These trails provide a range of experiences from leisurely strolls among wildflowers to more invigorating hikes with panoramic vistas. Each trail offers a chance to explore South Bass Island's natural landscapes and enjoy its tranquil surroundings.
One of the best trails is the one that loops around the memorial. You get to enjoy beautiful views of the lake while learning about the history of the area through informative plaques along the way. It’s the perfect blend of exercise and education!
Check out the trails that lead to the nearby beaches. Nothing beats the feeling of sand between your toes.
Conclusion
Throughout the year, Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial hosts special events and programs. From reenactments of the Battle of Lake Erie to peaceful commemorations, there’s often something exciting happening. Check the park’s calendar before you visit so you don’t miss out!
Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial is more than just a beautiful monument; it’s a place to honor history, enjoy nature, and create lasting memories.
If you have something you would like to submit to have posted on this website, such as a blog submission or a new hiking trail you think we should check out, please contact us below!
