OLIVER HAZARD PERRY SHIPYARD

The Oliver Hazard Perry Shipyard (OHPS) is a planned historic ship museum in Erie with a decommissioned Oliver Hazard Perry class Missile Guided Frigate as a public display. OHPS is completing the U.S. Navy’s rigorous 3-phase ship donation process to secure the USS Halyburton (FFG-40) which will provide visitors with a dynamic walkthrough experience of this unique modern-day American warship, educating visitors about the role and capabilities of the ship, and what life was like onboard.

This will be hands-on experience for visitors, sparking excitement about the Navy, Perry’s legacy, and Erie’s maritime history. Our mission is to honor veterans and share the remarkable story of Oliver Hazard Perry and his legacy. Establishing the Halyburton as a museum ship in Erie reignites in a new way the profound historical relationship between the Navy and Erie and brings a direct and substantial modern-day connection between the region and the Navy. OHPS will have a national draw for the sailors who once called a frigate like the Halyburton home and history afficionados who come to see the most modern warship available to the public. OHPS is a gamechanger for Erie.

The Halyburton will be the foundation of the Perry Shipyard and will serve as a naval and maritime museum celebrating the region’s historical naval connection. OHPS is designed to elevate public awareness of the Navy’s role and the experience of American veterans who served onboard ships around the world in defense of the nation. It will also educate future generations about the importance of maintaining a strong national defense, opportunities within the Navy, and related careers such as nautical engineering.

We view the shipyard as complementary, not competition, for existing attractions on the bayfront. Ultimately OHPS will contribute to the portfolio of offerings in Erie and make the city a destination of choice for travelers, particularly those in the larger region.