Perry Sesquicentennial 1963 Carnival

The City of Erie, PA pulled out all the stops to celebrate the Perry Sesquicentennial in 1963. They even released bronze souvenir coins to commemorate the event.

This limited edition coin was issued for the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Lake Erie. The Perry sesquicentennial medal was the size of a half dollar and was produced in limited quantities. There are at least two other coins in this series. All three had different redemption dates. 

 In addition to the Winter Carnival, there were many events such as a reenactment of the Battle of Lake Erie at Veteran's Memorial Stadium, and a series of parades.

Enjoy more historic facts and photos of Erie, PA at: oldtimeerie.blogspot.com

Perry Square Carnival, State Street, Erie PA

Perry Square Carnival around 1963. Photo ©Debbi Lyon 2012.

Perry Square was blocked off for a winter carnival around 1963 in Erie, Pennsylvania. Food vendors lined up along the west side of State Street. You could buy a foot long hotdog, cotton candy or a candy apple. There were rides on the east side of State Street. The flying helicopter ride was set up here near South Park Row.

The Hotel Richford, which is now Richford Arms, is the tall brick building in the center of the picture. The old State Store was in the building to the right of the hotel on North Park Row; that building has since been torn down.

Here is an old postcard of the Richford Hotel: http://oldtimeerie.blogspot.com/2012/09/ford-hotel-now-richford-arms-on-state.html

A number of events have been held on State Street at Perry Square over the years, including We Love Erie Days, Erie Rib Fest and Roar on the Shore.

What's your favorite Perry Square Erie festival?