We, as citizens of the United States, owe an inexpressible debt to these men and women whose efforts forever champion the immutable tenets of valor and dedication, and our Commonwealth's veterans homes remain committed to providing the best possible care to these true American heroes. The residents, staff, and volunteers of the Pennsylvania Soldiers' and Sailors' Home join me in extending a warm welcome to you. The information below will explain the many services that are available at our home. The home is situated on 26 pastoral acres overlooking Lake Erie and is steeped in history. A little-known fact is that widows and spouses of veterans are eligible for admission.
Volunteers are always welcome to assist in areas of recreational activities.
The Pennsylvania Soldiers' and Sailors' Home in Erie has been in operation for more than a century. Work began in 1867 when it was conceived as a marine hospital to be used by the federal government as part of its system of homes for disabled volunteer soldiers. The government declined the offer, however, and work was halted in 1885 when the project ran out of funds. The Pennsylvania general Assembly decided there should be a home for indigent and disabled ex-soldiers from pennsylvania, and created a commission to pursue this objective. The commission chose the Marine hospital site in Erie.