The Perry Group

10/13/2026

The Perry Group is please to welcome Brian Harmon as the new superintendent of Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial!

We look forward to working with Brian and continuing our shared commitment to preserving the memorial's history, honoring Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry's legacy, and supporting this important national landmark.

Welcome to Put-in-Bay, Brian!

The National Park Service has selected Brian Harmon as the new superintendent of Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. With more than 25 years of experience, including 15 years with NPS, Harmon has demonstrated leadership in park operations, resource management, cultural resource protection, partnerships and project management. He will assume this new role in the fall.

“Brian’s broad experience leading park operations, building partnerships and protecting cultural resources will serve Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial well,” said Pete Swisher, acting deputy director of the NPS Midwest Region. “His collaborative leadership will help advance the memorial’s mission and strengthen its connections with the surrounding community.”

Currently, Harmon serves a dual role at Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota, as acting superintendent and program lead for natural and cultural resources. Previously, he served as acting superintendent of Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial in Indiana. Harmon also served in various leadership positions at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Rainbow Bridge National Monument and other national park and cultural resource programs.

“I am honored to join the team at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial and return to the shores of Lake Erie,” said Harmon. “The memorial’s history, its connections to the Great Lakes and its message of peace make this an especially meaningful opportunity. I look forward to working with employees, partners and affiliated communities to care for and share this important place.”

Harmon grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, and has a particular fascination with tall ships and the history of naval warfare during the age of sail – interests that closely align with the maritime heritage of Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. He and his wife enjoy hiking, biking and snowshoeing.

https://www.nps.gov/pevi/learn/news/brian-harmon-selected-as-superintendent-of-perry-s-victory-and-international-peace-memorial.htm

09/21/2026

It’s International Day of Peace—and Put-in-Bay has a monument to it.

We usually call it “the monument.” But its full name tells a bigger story: Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial.

It honors those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie and celebrates the lasting peace among the United States, Great Britain, and Canada.

09/13/2026

Thank you to everyone who came out and helped make Historic Weekend such a memorable celebration!

We were honored to welcome the Commanding Officer and Sailors of the USS Lake Erie, who truly enjoyed their time on the Lake Erie Islands and being part of this special weekend.

A special thank you to the National Park Service, our island community, volunteers, and everyone who helped make the weekend possible. Your support and hospitality made Historic Weekend a wonderful celebration of our history, community, and the special connection we share with the USS Lake Erie 🇺🇸⚓

09/11/2026

THIS WEEKEND, HISTORY RETURNS TO PUT-IN-BAY. 🇺🇸⚓

Join us at Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial as we commemorate the 213th anniversary of the Battle of Lake Erie—the victory that secured American control of Lake Erie and helped shape the course of the War of 1812.

Experience historic encampments, reenactors, educational programs, and small-arms and artillery demonstrations throughout the weekend.

SATURDAY HIGHLIGHTS
🥁 Historic Weekend Parade • 2 PM
⚓ Captain Drew A. Borovies, commanding officer of USS Lake Erie • 2:45 PM
📍 Rear porch of the National Park Service Visitor Center

All programs are free and open to the public.

Full schedule: https://theperrygroup.org/events

09/10/2026

213 YEARS AGO TODAY ⚓

On September 10, 1813, Oliver Hazard Perry’s fleet won the Battle of Lake Erie near Put-in-Bay—securing American control of the lake and changing the course of the War of 1812.

“We have met the enemy and they are ours.”

This history belongs to our island, our region and our nation. Preserving it—and sharing its enduring message of peace—is why The Perry Group exists.

Join us for Historic Weekend, September 11–13.

What does Perry’s Victory mean to you?

Schedule: https://theperrygroup.org/events

09/09/2026

ON THIS DAY • SEPTEMBER 9, 1813

The British fleet sailed from Amherstburg toward Lake Erie while Oliver Hazard Perry’s American squadron waited at Put-in-Bay.

The following morning, the fleets would meet in the decisive Battle of Lake Erie.

This weekend, we bring that history to life during Historic Weekend at Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial.

September 11–13 • Free and open to the public
Schedule: https://theperrygroup.org/events

Battle of Lake Erie by L. Garneray. Courtesy of the National Archives.

09/08/2026

⚓ SPECIAL HISTORIC WEEKEND GUEST

The Perry Group is honored to welcome Captain Drew A. Borovies, the current and final commanding officer of the USS Lake Erie, to Put-in-Bay!

Join us for his remarks during Saturday’s commemorative ceremony:

Saturday, September 12 • 2:45 PM
Rear porch of the NPS Visitor Center

Free and open to the public.

Historic Weekend schedule: https://theperrygroup.org/events

U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Melissa L. Spoerl

08/23/2026

Happy 241st Birthday, Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry!

Today, August 23, marks the 241st birthday of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry.

After an incredible celebration last night, we’re continuing to honor Perry’s life and legacy today. A special thank you to Capt. Darren McPherson, USN (Ret.), former commanding officer of the USS Lake Erie, for an inspiring and memorable presentation.

And here’s one remarkable piece of Perry history: August 23 was not only the day he was born — it was also the day he died.

Perry survived naval battles, war, and a career at sea, only to die from yellow fever on August 23, 1819 — his 34th birthday.

His life was short, but the legacy he left behind has endured for more than two centuries.

To celebrate his birthday today, the Perry Group has provided complimentary birthday cupcakes at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial Visitor Center. Stop in, enjoy a cupcake, and help us wish Commodore Perry a happy 241st birthday!

Happy Birthday, Commodore Perry!

08/22/2026

Today’s the day!

Join the Perry Group tonight from 6–8 PM as we celebrate Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s Birthday and legacy at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial.

We’re honored to welcome Capt. Darren McPherson, USN (Ret.), former commanding officer of the USS Lake Erie, as our special guest.

The celebration is complimentary for Perry Group members, and memberships will be available at the door or at theperrygroup.org

Perry’s actual birthday is tomorrow — but the celebration starts tonight.