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Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial

The column commemorates the 1812 Battle of Lake Erie.

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Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial General Information

Standing at an impressive height of 352 feet, Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial stands as a majestic symbol of enduring peace and friendship between nations.

Constructed in 1915, this monumental Doric column underwent significant renovations in 2009 and reopened its doors to the public in 2012.

As a national monument, it has become an iconic structure recognized and celebrated throughout Ohio’s Great Lakes region and the entire United States.

Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial embodies the essence of American tradition and serves as a testament to our nation’s rich history and profound respect for the past.

Its towering presence serves as a reminder of the values we hold dear, including unity, diplomacy, and the pursuit of lasting peace among nations.

A visit to Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial is not only an opportunity to appreciate its architectural magnificence but also a chance to reflect on the significance of peace and cooperation in shaping the world we live in today.

Photo of Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial

Perrys Victory And International Peace Memorial Hours & Fees

When planning your visit to Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial, it’s important to note some basic information to make the most of your experience. While entry to the memorial rotunda is free, access to the observation deck requires a fee and a timed ticket.

These timed tickets can be purchased on the day of your visit at the visitor center.

The fee for individuals aged 16 and older is $10, while children aged 15 and younger can enter for free. Additionally, there are other passes available for different visitor needs.

Parking near the memorial is limited, and the area may be congested due to ongoing seawall construction. To avoid any inconvenience, it is recommended to arrive early or consider parking at the visitor center and walking to the memorial. This will ensure a smoother visit and allow you to make the most of your time exploring the memorial and its surroundings.

 

Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial Hours

 

Please note that the following hours specifically apply to the Memorial Rotunda and Observation Deck at Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial. The last elevator up to the deck is available until 5:45 pm.

It is important to be aware that exceptions may occur for special events, and there might be adjusted hours due to reduced staffing. Additionally, severe weather conditions can also lead to changes in operating hours.

Tickets and passes to access the Memorial Rotunda and Observation Deck are exclusively sold at the visitor center. For the visitor center’s hours and updates, refer to the Operating Hours & Seasons or check the current conditions.

However, it is important to note that the park walkways, lawns, memorial plaza, and all roads, including State Route 35 (Bayview Ave) are open 24 hours a day.

Visitors can enjoy these areas anytime when visiting Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding operating hours, ticket sales, and any changes or closures, it is recommended to check the provided resources or contact the visitor center directly. This will ensure you have the latest information, and can plan your visit accordingly to maximize your time at the memorial.

 

 

Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial

Open Sunday Thru Saturday From 10:00 AM To 6:00 PM

Operating hours for the rotunda and observation deck are modified for special events and adjusted for staffing reductions. The last elevator ride to the observation deck is 15 minutes before closing. Prepare to purchase tickets or passes from the visitor center before that time.

Photo Of the Perrys Victory And International Peace Memorial
Photo Of the Perrys Victory And International Peace Memorial
Photo Of the Perrys Victory And International Peace Memorial

History Of Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial

The Battle of Lake Erie, War of 1812

 

At the break of dawn on September 10, 1813, a lookout stationed at Put-in-Bay spotted a British fleet of six vessels beyond Rattlesnake Island to the northwest. Master Commandant Oliver Hazard Perry wasted no time and swiftly issued orders, preparing his own fleet to engage the British.

With Perry’s fleet stationed on Lake Erie, the British supply route from Fort Malden to Port Dover had been cut off. The British had no choice but to face the American fleet or abandon Fort Malden. The British squadron consisted of six ships armed with sixty-three cannons, while the American flotilla comprised nine vessels equipped with fifty-four guns.

The British ships boasted long guns capable of firing a cannonball up to a mile, accurately reaching half a mile. In contrast, the American ships relied on carronades with a shorter range but capable of inflicting significant damage at close quarters. Perry needed the wind to be at his back to close in within carronade range.

At 7 a.m., the squadron departed from Put-in-Bay harbor, with the American vessels steering west-northwest and the wind blowing from the west-southwest. For over two hours, Perry repeatedly maneuvered his ships, attempting to position them with the wind favorably, but without success.

Frustrated, Perry conceded to the forces of nature at 10 a.m., giving the order to turn his fleet in the opposite direction. However, before the order could be executed, the windPhoto Of the Perrys Victory And International Peace Memorial suddenly shifted and blew from the southeast, placing it directly behind the Americans.

Perry’s opponent, Commander Robert Heriot Barclay, was a seasoned Royal Navy officer who had fought alongside Lord Nelson at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Two years later, he lost an arm while fighting the French. As the wind changed, Barclay maintained his course, directing his vessels westward and forming a line of battle.

With the wind now favoring him and the British battle line revealed, Perry adjusted his own tactics. The schooners Ariel and Scorpion were positioned off the flagship’s weather bow to engage the first British vessel and prevent the enemy from raking his fleet.

The Lawrence, a 20-gun brig serving as Perry’s flagship, took the third position in line and would confront the Detroit, Barclay’s 19-gun flagship. Following the Lawrence was the Caledonia, a small brig armed with only three guns. The Niagara, Perry’s other 20-gun brig and sister ship to the Lawrence, held the fifth position in the American battle line.

Under the command of Master Commandant Jesse Elliott, the Niagara would engage the 17-gun Queen Charlotte, the second largest British ship. The smaller schooners and sloop occupied the final positions and would face the smaller British vessels.

Just before the battle commenced, Perry hoisted his battle flag at the flagship’s main truck. The navy blue banner bore the crudely inscribed words, “DONT GIVE UP THE SHIP,” chosen as Perry’s battle slogan in remembrance of Captain James Lawrence, a close friend and fallen hero who uttered those inspiring words before his death on June 1, 1813.

Perry’s flagship was named after Lawrence, and the courageous message on the flag clearly reflected Perry’s unwavering determination to emerge victorious.

First Shots Fired The Battle of Lake Erie

At 11:45 a.m., the British ship Detroit fired the first shot from extreme range, a 24-pounder that fell harmlessly near the Lawrence, the American flagship. A few minutes later, another 24-pounder was fired, but this time the heavy ball penetrated Lawrence’s defenses, causing casualties among the American sailors.

As Lawrence’s carronades were still out of range, Commodore Perry ordered the Scorpion, armed with a single long 24-pounder, and the Ariel, equipped with four long 12-pounders, to open fire. Over the next thirty minutes, Perry maneuvered desperately to close the distance, during which time the Lawrence had to pass nearly the entire British battle line, enduring punishment all the way.

Perry faced an additional challenge with the small gunboats at the rear of his formation. Due to the light wind, these schooners and sloop fell behind early, and even with all sails set and using sweeps, they remained two miles astern when the battle began, temporarily out of the immediate engagement.

At 12:15 p.m., Perry managed to close the distance and brought the Lawrence to luff, aligning her starboard guns to bear on the enemy. When the Lawrence unleashed her broadside, the powerful 32-pounders crashed into the British ships, signaling that the advantage would soon shift to the Americans once the Niagara joined the fray.

However, when Perry looked astern, expecting to see the Niagara closing in on Queen Charlotte, he was shocked to find that Captain Jesse Elliott had halted the Niagara’s progress by backing her sails. This unexpected tactic rendered the Niagara immobile.

Initially, Elliott’s actions seemed justified. The Caledonia, positioned directly ahead of the Niagara, also reduced sail. Recognizing the overwhelming firepower of Queen Charlotte, Caledonia’s commander wisely decided to hold back and avoid endangering his vessel.

Following one of Elliott’s procedural directives, which emphasized maintaining position in line, Perry’s second-in-command was simply adhering to his superior’s orders. Elliott initiated the engagement with the Niagara’s 12-pounder bow chaser, the only gun that could be brought to bear from his current position astern of the Caledonia.

As the battle progressed, the Caledonia continued to hesitate, prompting Elliott to decide to move ahead of the smaller brig. Displaying initiative, the Niagara’s captain deviated from the rigid line-of-battle tactic, disregarding one of his superior’s orders. With this move, Elliott could now follow Perry’s second specific order—to engage his designated adversary at close range. The Queen Charlotte was Niagara’s predetermined opponent.

However, instead of closing in on the British line, Elliott maneuvered the Niagara windward, slightly angling away from the enemy ships. The reasons behind this questionable decision are still debated, but regardless of motive, the Niagara’s carronades, accounting for nearly forty percent of Perry’s total broadside strength, remained inactive and out of range.

While the Niagara lingered to windward, the guns of Queen Charlotte were rendered ineffective. Misunderstanding his opponent’s maneuver but eager to bring his guns to bear, the commander of the second largest British vessel allowed his ship to turn and move ahead of General Hunter, positioning Queen Charlotte to assist the Detroit in engaging the Lawrence.

Largely disregarding the smaller American support vessels, the Detroit, Queen Charlotte, and General Hunter focused their broadsides on the Lawrence, while the Niagara remained a mere spectator. Despite Lawrence’s valiant resistance and significant damage inflicted upon the British, the American flagship was overwhelmed by the superior firepower of her adversaries.

 
 

 

At One Point, The Battle Appeared Hopeless For Perry

By 2:30 p.m., the American flagship, the Lawrence, had been reduced to a floating wreck. Every gun on its engaged side was rendered inoperable, and four out of every five able-bodied men were either killed or wounded. Commodore Perry faced the grim reality of surrender.

However, as Perry surveyed the relatively undamaged Niagara, still out of reach but within sight, he made a crucial decision. Gathering four uninjured men, he boarded thePhoto Of the Perrys Victory And International Peace Memorial flagship’s first cutter and rowed through a storm of enemy fire toward the Niagara. Miraculously, Perry and his crew reached the Niagara unscathed.

After a brief discussion, Perry sent Elliott, his second-in-command, in the same small boat to hasten the lagging gunboats. Meanwhile, Perry prepared the Niagara for immediate action, adjusted the helm, and set sail towards the British line.

Despite the extensive damage inflicted on the Lawrence, the British fleet suffered significant losses. Barclay, their commander, was severely wounded, and each British vessel’s captains and first lieutenants were incapacitated. Junior officers now commanded the British fleet, courageous but inexperienced in navigating ships amidst the chaos of battle.

Upon witnessing the Niagara advancing towards their line, the British attempted to change course, intending to bring their unused starboard broadsides to bear. However, amid the turmoil of the battle, the battered Detroit and Queen Charlotte collided, becoming entangled and unable to maneuver.

Perry skillfully guided the Niagara through the disarrayed British line by exploiting the enemy’s error. Unleashing devastating broadsides from both sides, the American commodore inflicted severe damage on the vulnerable British ships.

As the Niagara cut through the British formation, Perry backed the maintop sail, holding the Niagara stationary while its roaring carronades decimated the enemy decks. By this time, the wind had also picked up, allowing the sluggish gunboats to surge forward and rake the enemy ships from astern.

Shortly after 3 p.m., the British accepted their inevitable defeat, with the four largest vessels surrendering individually. The gunboats Chippawa and Little Belt attempted to escape, but they were pursued and captured by the American ships Scorpion and Trippe. The entire British fleet was now under American control.

The victorious fleet anchored near West Sister Island, where hasty repairs commenced. At this time, Perry composed his famous message to General William Henry Harrison. Perry wrote using a pencil and the back of an old envelope, “Dear General: We have met the enemy, and they are ours. Two ships, two brigs, one schooner and one sloop. Yours with great respect and esteem, O.H. Perry.”

The Battle of Lake Erie was one of the most significant triumphs of the War of 1812. The victory secured American control of the lake, compelling the British to abandon Fort Malden and retreat up the Thames River. Harrison’s army pursued the retreating forces and achieved a decisive victory over the small British army and its Native American allies at the Battle of the Thames on October 5, 1813.

Furthermore, during the subsequent peace negotiations, the dual victories at Lake Erie and the Thames ensured that the states of Ohio and Michigan would remain sovereign territories of the United States of America.

 

The History Of  The Construction Of The Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial

The renowned Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial stands on a slender stretch of land on South Bass Island, towering at 352 feet. This impressive monument ranks among the tallest in the United States. It is recognized as a Lake Erie Lighthouse despite deviating from the conventional lighthouse classification. At its pinnacle, a flashing beacon serves as a navigational aid, further enhancing its significance.

The establishment of the Memorial is a tribute to the brave individuals who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. However, its significance goes beyond that, symbolizing the enduring peace and friendship among Britain, Canada, and the United States. Positioned just 5 miles from the longest undefended border in the world, it serves as a powerful reminder of the harmonious relationship these nations share.

Construction of the monument commenced in October 1912 and was made accessible to the public on June 13, 1915. 1936 it was designated as a National Park Service Memorial,Photo Of the Perrys Victory And International Peace Memorial further solidifying its importance. In 1972, the name was changed from Perry Victory Monument to Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial to acknowledge the ongoing peace between the United States and Canada. A Canadian flag proudly flies alongside the American flag at the memorial site as a testament to this partnership.

Masonic exercises were performed at laying the memorial’s cornerstone on July 4, 1913.

The Ohio General Assembly originally purchased the land for the park and then ceded the title to the United States government. The architect and designer of the Memorial was Joseph Freedlander of New York, who was selected through the largest architectural competition ever held in the United States or Europe. Judges were members of the National Fine Arts Commission.

The towering column is crowned with a magnificent bronze urn, accentuating its grandeur and significance. Its observation deck offers visitors a remarkable experience,Photo Of the Perrys Victory And International Peace Memorial providing panoramic views from a height that ranks among the tallest in the world for structures of its kind. To access the open-air observation platform, visitors are guided by an elevator that ascends to the top, offering a breathtaking 360-degree vista. However, before reaching the elevator room, visitors must climb a narrow stairway, adding a touch of adventure to their journey.

In 2006, an unexpected incident occurred when a massive 500-pound piece of granite detached from the top observation platform and plummeted down, significantly impacting the plaza floor 317 feet below. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but as a safety precaution, the observation platform and the plaza were temporarily closed to visitors. Extensive repairs were undertaken to restore the platform, which was reopened for public access. 

To ensure the long-term preservation and enhancement of the nearly century-old monument, plans were set in motion for a comprehensive renovation project slated to commence in 2009. This ambitious endeavor aimed to revitalize the memorial in preparation for the Bicentennial Celebration of the Battle of Lake Erie, scheduled for 2013. The renovation was intended to be completed in time for this significant commemorative event, ensuring that the monument stood as a testament to the historic battle and its enduring legacy.

Nestled at the heart of the colossal column’s base resides a solemn and sacred space, a domed room that serves as the final resting place for six individuals who fell during the Battle of Lake Erie on September 10, 1813, amid the War of 1812. This hallowed chamber pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of three American and three British officers, whose lives were tragically cut short in the midst of the historic conflict.

Initially, the remains of the six officers rested in what is now the village of Put-in-Bay. However, on September 11, 1913, their mortal remains were respectfully moved and re-Photo Of the Perrys Victory And International Peace Memorialinterred in the crypt located within Perry’s Memorial. This solemn act was carried out to ensure their lasting commemoration within the memorial dedicated to their heroic actions.

To honor their original resting place and preserve the historical significance, a marker now stands in Put-in-Bay, serving as a reminder of the officers’ initial burial site. This marker pays tribute to the importance of the location and its connection to the War of 1812.

Benson Lossing crafted the illustration on the left for his book “The Pictorial Field-Book of the War of 1812,” published in 1868. Lossing, an avid researcher, and historian, not only visited numerous significant battle sites but also conducted interviews with surviving participants of the conflicts. Through his diligent efforts, Lossing captured the essence of the War of 1812, providing valuable insights into the events and the individuals involved in this historical chapter of American and British history.

During the 1850s, various monument associations made efforts to establish a memorial honoring Perry on South Bass Island and nearby Gibraltar. However, these endeavors faced challenges, and plans and resources often fizzled out. It wasn’t until the approach of the centennial anniversary that significant progress was made.

In preparation for the Perry’s Victory Centennial, the Inter-State Board of the Perry’s Victory Centennial Commission was established. This commission, fueled by contributions from states surrounding the Great Lakes, aimed to construct a memorial that symbolized the enduring peace between the United States, Canada, and Great Britain that followed Perry’s Victory.

After conducting a national competition, architects Joseph H. Freedlander and Joseph D. Seymour’s design was selected for the memorial. In the autumn of 1913, the commission broke ground, marking the beginning of the monument’s construction. The cornerstone was laid on the following 4th of July, further signifying the project’s significance.

To document the progress of the monument’s construction, the commission enlisted the services of Otto Herbster, a prominent photographer of the time. Herbster was tasked with capturing the various stages of the monument’s development through his photographs, ensuring a visual record of the construction process.

Through Otto Herbster’s photographs, the diligent work of the construction workers came to life. His images documented the laborers engaged in tasks such as constructing forms, transporting sand and gravel, and meticulously shaping and assembling 79 layers of pink granite. These photographs offered a glimpse into the intricate process of creating the memorial.

The memorial’s centerpiece, the Doric column, majestically rose to a towering height of 352 feet above the shimmering waters of Lake Erie. Its impressive construction featured walls and ceilings made of Indiana limestone, measuring a substantial 9 ½ feet in thickness. The durable and elegant limestone added to the monument’s grandeur, further enhancing its visual impact.

For those interested in delving deeper into the monument’s construction and exploring Otto Herbster’s remarkable photographs, Jeff Kissel’s book, published by Arcadia Publishing, is highly recommended. It provides a comprehensive collection of Herbster’s captivating images, allowing readers to witness the progress of the monument’s construction.

However, a visit to South Bass Island is highly recommended for the most immersive experience and to truly appreciate the monument’s grandeur. Plan a trip for the summer, when the winter has subsided, and relish in the awe-inspiring view from the top of this magnificent monument, which proudly stands as the fourth tallest in the United States. It promises to be a memorable experience and a testament to the remarkable history and enduring peace celebrated by Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial.

View From Top Of The Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial

On A Clear Day, Visitors Can See The Skyline Of Toledo, Detroit, & Cleveland!

from the blog

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Harry D.

Driving down to Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial on South Bass Island and exploring the monument is a great choice. Even though you might have missed the opportunity to go up to the tower and visit the museum, the monument itself is still awe-inspiring and provides a stunning panoramic view of the island, even from the bottom.

To make the most of your visit, it's advisable to arrive during the mornings or evenings when it's less crowded. This allows you to enjoy the experience in a more serene atmosphere. Remember that masks might be required if you plan to go inside the monument, but they are usually provided for free in case you forget to bring one.

Overall, driving down and taking in the sights and ambiance of the monument is highly recommended. Enjoy the impressive structure, the breathtaking views, and the tranquility of the surroundings.

Lara D.

During our visit to Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial, we were struck by the impressive width and, most notably, the towering height of the monument. Its location by the water offers a spacious area for visitors, ensuring that crowding is not a concern. Additionally, there is a stone wall where you can take a moment to rest and a cemented walking path along the bay, providing a pleasant environment for a stroll. The monument's prominent position allows it to be seen from various locations on Small Bass Island, offering different perspectives for capturing memorable photos. Whether you're viewing it up close or from a distance, the monument's stature and scenic surroundings make it a captivating experience.

Brandon D.

The beauty of Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial is genuinely captivating, and you found it to be well-maintained and educational. While there is an elevator available to reach the observation level, it's worth noting that you need to climb around 37 steps to access it (and descend the same stairs on your way back down). The staff provides a designated area to store packages and backpacks, as they are not allowed at the top for security reasons. Once you reach the observation level, you'll find binoculars available for visitors who wish to borrow them and enhance their viewing experience. The knowledgeable officers on site are ready to assist you and answer any questions you may have, showcasing their expertise and dedication. It's worth mentioning that they even offered you a chair when you needed a moment to rest, displaying their attentiveness to visitor comfort and enjoyment.

Joleen C.

Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial is indeed an impressive structure, standing tall at 352 feet and constructed with granite in 1913. Its purpose is to honor O.H. Perry's triumph over the British during the War of 1812 and celebrate the peaceful relations between the United States and Canada. One delightful surprise you encountered was the small museum, which offers an excellent video presentation detailing the Battle of Lake Erie. The museum also houses fascinating artifacts and letters from soldiers who participated in the battle, providing a glimpse into the historical context. perry's monument height was incredible!

Although we missed the live demonstrations by park rangers as they were only available on weekends during your visit, these demonstrations likely offer an immersive and educational experience.
While the elevator to the top of the monument was closed for reconstruction due to a part of the granite falling off, visitors can still explore the base of the tower. This area is significant as Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial serves as the final resting place for three American and three British officers who lost their lives during the battle, adding a poignant and solemn aspect to the memorial.

Wendel F.

My family and I had a fantastic day trip to Put-In-Bay, filled with fun and memorable experiences! If you want to minimize costs and maximize your visit, I highly recommend taking JetExpress. Their dock is conveniently located downtown, just minutes from the Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial. On the other hand, if you choose to take Miller's Ferry, be prepared to rent a golf cart, which typically costs around $100 for the day, or be ready for a lengthy walk. (We've tried both transportation options in the past.)

For those planning to ascend to the top of the monument, be aware that there are approximately two flights of steps to climb before reaching the elevator landing, which is the only way to continue your journey upwards. The admission fee for adults to reach the top is $10 per person. However, if you have a 4th grader with a national park pass, they can enter for free—a great way to save on expenses! Overall, it was a fantastic day trip for our family, and we had a blast exploring Put-In-Bay and enjoying the attractions, including the remarkable Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial and perry's victory on lake erie

Genie B.

We had the opportunity to visit the Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial on July 4th. Luckily, we arrived early, right when it opened at 10:00 am, so we didn't have to wait in line. However, as we descended, we noticed that the line had grown long. Here are a few things to remember: The admission fee is $3.00 per person, and having cash on hand is preferable. Additionally, please note that larger bags or backpacks are not allowed at the top of the monument. You must leave them at the designated pay kiosk before boarding the elevator.

Once we reached the top, we were greeted by knowledgeable and helpful staff. On a clear day, the view from the summit is simply spectacular. We could even see Canada in the distance! It truly is a sight to behold, and if you haven't experienced the view from the top of this monument, it's definitely worth a visit.

Near the monument's base is a newly opened historical museum. It houses numerous artifacts, offers a short movie presentation, and provides rich historical information. It's an excellent place to visit if you want to delve deeper into the history and significance of the monument. Our visit to the Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial was a memorable experience. The breathtaking view, helpful staff, and the opportunity to explore the nearby museum made it worthwhile.

Grady W.

The elevator ride to the top of the monument is quite lengthy, but it's an informative and educational experience. The Park Ranger who accompanies you provides a fascinating history lesson during the ascent.

Once you reach the summit, the view is breathtaking! You'll have a panoramic view of Put In Bay and the beautiful lake. Park Rangers are also stationed at the top, ready to assist and answer any questions you may have about the monument and the surrounding area. Although you're at a considerable height, there's no need to worry as the top is surrounded by tall cement walls, ensuring security. It's a fantastic activity to enjoy with kids, as they'll not only marvel at the view but also have the opportunity to engage with knowledgeable Park Rangers.

Overall, the experience of going to the top of the Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial is both educational and exciting, offering a magnificent view and creating lasting memories, especially for children.

Floyd N.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the visitor center at the Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial, in addition to enjoying the excellent views from the top. The visitor center does an outstanding job of narrating the story behind Oliver Hazard Perry's decisive victory over the British in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. Learn about how Perry, amidst the battle, transferred his command and famous flag reading "DONT GIVE UP THE SHIP" to another brig after his initial flagship became incapacitated. The memorial commemorates this victory and the enduring peace that emerged between the United States, Canada, and Britain after the war concluded. Inside the memorial's base, you'll find the reinterred remains of the six officers who perished in the battle, with the names of the ships involved and their casualties inscribed on the marble walls. To reach the observation platform, you must ascend 37 steps, purchase a $3 ticket (children aged 15 and under enter for free), and ride the elevator to the top.

Situated just east of downtown Put-In-Bay, there is no entrance fee to access the memorial's base or the visitor center. The visitor center also offers captivating black powder demonstrations and Ranger and Junior Ranger programs. The memorial and visitor center are open daily from mid-May through the weekend following Labor Day, providing ample opportunity to explore and learn.

Cathy D.

Upon arriving at Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial also called "the monument", you'll encounter a circular stairway that leads to the level where the elevator is located. Don't worry; there are fewer than 40 steps to climb, making it a manageable journey. The elevator ride itself is only 1 minute, so the line tends to move efficiently. You'll pay the fee just before entering the elevator area.

If you possess the Golden Eagle pass (National Parks pass for seniors), remember to bring it along, as it includes access to the monument. You can even bring up to 3 additional individuals with you who won't have to pay. The view from the top is truly spectacular and worth the trip. Informative placards at each corner offer valuable information about the surroundings. perry's monument cost was only $10

When it's time to descend, you'll find that the line for the elevator down is usually shorter. It's important to note that there are no restrooms inside the monument itself, but you'll find facilities at the visitor center across the lawn.

Allison R.


We started our day by renting a golf cart and going to the Perrys Victory and International Peace Memorial monument. It had been nearly 20 years since my last visit, and I was surprised to learn that it had been closed for almost 3 years before reopening this past July. Fortunately, the day we chose to go was free, so we didn't have to pay anything to explore the monument.

We were pleased to find there was no waiting time to go up, and we only had to wait about 10 minutes to descend. The views from the top were incredible, and to aid our understanding, helpful maps pointed out the different islands. Additionally, a park ranger was stationed there, ready to answer any questions we had.

Overall, it was a fantastic experience, and the combination of the stunning views and knowledgeable park ranger made our visit truly memorable.