If you’re looking for information about visiting the Hagen History Center in Erie, you’re in the right place!
The Hagen History Center is a museum that offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore over 200 years of local history through engaging exhibits and incredible architecture.
From the grandeur of the Watson-Curtze Mansion to the immersive displays in the New Exhibit Building, there are four buildings worth of artifacts and exhibits to explore here.
Directions | Hours | Admission Fees
The Hagen History Center is located at 356 West 6th Street, Erie, PA 16507.
The museum hours are as follows: Tuesday – Saturday 10 am – 5 pm | Sunday Noon – 5 pm | Closed Monday.
Admission fees for the Hagen History Center are as follows: Adults $12 | Students $7.50 | Veterans $10.00 |Children 6 & Under FREE.
Parking is free in a large lot adjacent to the Visitor Center.
What You’ll See at the Hagen History Center
Named after benefactor Thomas B. Hagen, who grew up nearby, the center encompasses four distinct buildings, each with its own set of exhibits.
The Watson-Curtze Mansion
The Watson-Curtze Mansion, a 24-room marvel built in 1891, stands out with its Richardsonian Romanesque style, intricate stained-glass windows, and mosaic tilework.
Inside the mansion, visitors can explore opulent rooms adorned with intricate woodwork, marble fireplaces, and stunning stained-glass windows.
The mansion’s dining room reflects the lavish lifestyle of Erie’s elite in the late 19th century.
Guests can also explore the richly decorated parlor, where the ornate furnishings evoke the elegance of a bygone era.
Originally the home of paper manufacturer Harrison F. Watson and later purchased by Frederic Felix Curtze, this 15,000-square-foot mansion now houses several exhibits.
On the second floor, visitors can explore Erie’s rich brewing heritage through the “Erie’s Beer Making Past” exhibit, which features artifacts from local breweries, vintage labels, and brewery memorabilia.
In another part of the mansion, the “Celebrating Erie’s Sporting Heritage” exhibit showcases jerseys, photographs, and memorabilia from Erie’s history in sports like hockey, baseball, roller derby, and soccer.
The Wood-Morrison House
The Wood-Morrison House, built in 1858 by Dr. William Maxwell Wood, offers a glimpse into Erie’s military history.
Dr. Wood, who served on the USS Michigan—the U.S. Navy’s first iron-hulled warship—helped to shape Erie’s maritime legacy.
Today, this renovated 5,000-square-foot house houses exhibits that chronicle Erie’s military contributions and honor the local men and women who have served in various conflicts.
One exhibit here honors Colonel Strong Vincent, a Civil War hero from Erie County who played a critical role in the Union’s victory at Gettysburg.
Artifacts and documents highlight Vincent’s bravery and his lasting impact on both Erie and national history.
The New Exhibit Building
The Frank Lloyd Wright exhibit on the first floor of the New Exhibit Building immerses visitors in the legendary architect’s world, featuring a meticulously recreated version of his San Francisco office.
Here, visitors can see his original desk, surrounded by architectural sketches that reflect his groundbreaking ideas in organic architecture.
Adding to the exhibit’s allure, Wright’s 1950 Crosley Hotshot, a sleek red sports car that embodied his unique aesthetic, is also on display, showcasing his appreciation for innovative design in all aspects of life.
Wright’s love for cars was an extension of his design philosophy, viewing vehicles as functional works of art that complemented his vision for modern living.
The second floor features photos, artifacts, exhibits that celebrate the people and industries that have shaped Erie County over the years.
Marx Toys played a significant role in Erie’s economy, employing thousands of local residents and producing some of the most beloved toys of the 20th century.
One of their most iconic creations, the Big Wheel tricycle, became a favorite for generations of children and a best-seller across the country.
The Rock’em Sock’em Robots, with their distinctive red and blue battling figures, brought playful competition into homes and solidified Marx Toys’ reputation as a leading toymaker.
Among the exhibits related to local figures, visitors can view Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s sword and telescope, significant artifacts from the War of 1812, commemorating his victory at the Battle of Lake Erie.
The Carriage House Visitor Center
The Carriage House Visitor Center serves as the entry point to the Hagen History Center and offers a gift shop, research area, and reading room.
Visitors can browse publications on Erie’s history or find unique souvenirs in the gift shop to commemorate their visit.
Final Thoughts
A visit to the Hagen History Center is both educational and inspiring, providing insight into the region’s rich past.
Each building offers a distinct perspective on Erie’s history, from architecture and industry to sports and military service.
Whether you’re an Erie native or a visitor, exploring the Hagen History Center connects you to the community’s heritage and the people who built it.
Nearby Attractions
Presque Isle State Park in Erie is Pennsylvania’s most-visited State Park, with over 4 million people a year venturing onto this sandy peninsula that arcs out into Lake Erie.
The Erie Zoo and Botanical Gardens are home to more than 400 animals and 600 species of plants from around the world.
Asbury Woods in Erie is a 234-acre park offering 5 miles of hiking trails, a Nature Center, and year-round outdoor recreational opportunities.
Exploring the Historic Lighthouses of Erie, PA takes you on a detailed tour of all three nautical landmarks, with maps, photos, historical accounts, and driving directions.
Erie Bluffs State Park is an “unpolished gem” along the shores of Lake Erie, featuring 90-foot bluffs, one mile of shoreline, and five miles of trails, making it a top spot for fishing and hiking in northwestern PA.
Schaefer’s Auto Art in Erie is a roadside attraction featuring quirky sculptures made from repurposed car parts and industrial scrap metal.
Find even more great destinations to explore all across Pennsylvania with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map!
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