The History of Presque Isle and the City of Erie, Pennsylvania: A Remote Sensing Case Study

Chris Schaney, Department of Geography, West Virginia University, cschaney@geo.wvu.edu

The natural harbor that Presque Isle creates has played a critical role in the economic development of the City of Erie, Pennsylvania over the past 200 years. This study utilizes an integrated geomorphic-spatial-historical approach to investigate the attempts that have been made during this time period to stabilize the dynamic movement of Presque Isle. Historical maps and aerial photographs were used to identify the spatial distribution and growth of the peninsula, as well as, to provide insight into the relationship between the natural forces reshaping Presque Isle, and the counter-active human forces at work. The geomorphological history of Presque Isle suggests that since the initial development of the harbor, it has been threatened by the natural forces that created Presque Isle and continually reshape it. The history of stabilization attempts indicate that a wide range of approaches have been employed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. These stabilization actions have been necessary to maintain Presque Isle harbor for commercial and recreational activities. Furthermore, the industrial and recreational history of Erie that has relied on Presque Isle is identified in order to understand the human, environmental and technological interactions that have taken place in Erie, Pennsylvania.