Originally named Contractor, she was purchased by the U.S. Navy in 1812, refitted as a warship, and renamed the USS Trippe after John Trippe, an officer in the U.S. Navy. Following the fall of Fort George at Niagara-on-the-Lake, the Trippe joined Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s fleet at Erie, PA in June,1813. Shortly thereafter, the Trippe engaged two British ships, firing furiously and inflicting severe damage to one of them. The American victory in the Battle of Lake Erie secured U.S. control of the lake, and was a significant factor in the war. Eventually, the Trippe returned to Buffalo and was burned to the water in 1813 when the British attacked Buffalo.

Read more about the Trippe by clicking HERE.

Five years ago the BMC set out to build a replica of this famous warship. Join the crew helping to recreate this amazing piece of history!