Discover Ohios Hidden Gem: the former Navy Base in Erie. Explore the history and significance of this naval base, now a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Learn about its transformation, recreational activities, and nearby attractions, showcasing the best of Erie, Pennsylvania, and Lake Eries natural beauty, a true Midwestern gem.
Ohio is a state rich in history and natural beauty, with numerous attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. However, there are also some lesser-known spots that are worth exploring, and one such place is the former Navy base in Erie, Ohio.
Located on the shores of Lake Erie, this former naval base has a fascinating history that dates back to World War II. The base was established in 1942 as a training facility for naval personnel, and it played a crucial role in the war effort. After the war, the base continued to operate, serving as a reserve training center and a homeport for various naval vessels.
Today, the former Navy base is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into Ohio's military past. Visitors can explore the base's historic buildings, including the old barracks, mess halls, and training facilities. The base also features a museum that showcases its history and the role it played in World War II.
One of the most interesting aspects of the former Navy base is its architecture. The base's buildings were designed in the Art Deco style, which was popular during the 1930s and 1940s. The buildings feature geometric shapes, bold colors, and ornate details, making them a unique and fascinating aspect of the base.
In addition to its history and architecture, the former Navy base is also home to a variety of wildlife. The base's location on the shores of Lake Erie makes it an ideal spot for birdwatching, and visitors can see a variety of species, including ducks, geese, and eagles. The base is also home to a number of other animals, including deer, rabbits, and squirrels.
Despite its many attractions, the former Navy base in Erie, Ohio is often overlooked by tourists. However, it is a hidden gem that is well worth visiting. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or wildlife, the base has something to offer.
History of the Navy Base
The history of the Navy base in Erie, Ohio dates back to World War II. In 1942, the U.S. Navy established a training facility on the shores of Lake Erie, which was designed to prepare naval personnel for duty on the high seas. The base was constructed quickly, with the first buildings opening in 1943.
During the war, the base played a crucial role in the training of naval personnel. Thousands of sailors passed through the base, where they received training in a variety of skills, including gunnery, navigation, and first aid. The base was also home to a number of naval vessels, including destroyers, submarines, and patrol boats.
After the war, the base continued to operate, serving as a reserve training center and a homeport for various naval vessels. In the 1950s and 1960s, the base underwent a number of renovations and expansions, including the construction of new barracks, mess halls, and training facilities.
In the 1970s and 1980s, the base began to decline, as the U.S. Navy reduced its presence in the region. The base was eventually closed in the 1990s, and it was redeveloped as a civilian facility.
Architecture of the Navy Base
The architecture of the Navy base in Erie, Ohio is a unique and fascinating aspect of the facility. The base's buildings were designed in the Art Deco style, which was popular during the 1930s and 1940s. The style is characterized by geometric shapes, bold colors, and ornate details, and it is evident in the base's buildings, including the old barracks, mess halls, and training facilities.
One of the most notable features of the base's architecture is its use of bold colors and geometric shapes. The buildings feature a mix of red, blue, and yellow colors, which were used to create a sense of energy and vitality. The buildings also feature a number of geometric shapes, including triangles, circles, and squares, which were used to create a sense of balance and harmony.
In addition to its bold colors and geometric shapes, the base's architecture also features a number of ornate details. The buildings feature intricate moldings, ornate doorways, and decorative cornices, which add to their overall sense of elegance and sophistication.
Wildlife of the Navy Base
The former Navy base in Erie, Ohio is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and reptiles. The base's location on the shores of Lake Erie makes it an ideal spot for birdwatching, and visitors can see a variety of species, including ducks, geese, and eagles.
In addition to birds, the base is also home to a number of other animals, including deer, rabbits, and squirrels. The base's varied landscape, which includes forests, grasslands, and wetlands, provides a habitat for a wide range of wildlife.
The base is also home to a number of reptiles and amphibians, including snakes, turtles, and frogs. The base's wetlands and ponds provide a habitat for these animals, which are often seen basking in the sun or swimming in the water.
Things to Do at the Navy Base
The former Navy base in Erie, Ohio offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the things to do at the base:
- Take a guided tour of the base's historic buildings and facilities.
- Visit the base's museum, which showcases its history and the role it played in World War II.
- Go birdwatching and see a variety of species, including ducks, geese, and eagles.
- Take a hike through the base's forests and grasslands, and see a variety of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and squirrels.
- Visit the base's wetlands and ponds, and see a variety of reptiles and amphibians, including snakes, turtles, and frogs.
Navy Base Image Gallery
In conclusion, the former Navy base in Erie, Ohio is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into the state's military past. With its unique architecture, varied wildlife, and range of activities, the base is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, nature, and adventure. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, the Navy base has something to offer. So why not plan a visit to the base today and discover its many wonders for yourself?