Iconic Sentinel Takes a Break: Erie Art Museum Relocates Eternal Vigilance for Historic Staircase Restoration

John Silk Deckard’s bronze statue, Eternal Vigilance, will be moved to the mid-point of the marble staircase to make room for an ADA-accessible railing as part of the Custom’s House restoration project

For the first time in decades, Eternal Vigilance—the bronze sculpture that has stood watch over the Erie Art Museum's Customs House—will temporarily step aside. The sculpture by renowned Erie artist John Silk Deckard will be carefully removed from its post this week to make way for the final phase of the restoration of the building's iconic marble staircase and the installation of accessibility improvements.

The sculpture's relocation, scheduled for Thursday, May 14, marks a visible milestone in the Museum's multi-phase Customs House Preservation Project. Eternal Vigilance will remain safely covered during construction and will return to a new position at the mid-point of the staircase, where it will continue its role as one of downtown Erie's most photographed landmarks.

"Moving Eternal Vigilance is a significant moment," said Laura Domencic, Executive Director of the Erie Art Museum. "This project aligns with the Museum’s new strategic plan. Art is essential for everyone, and this project preserves the Customs House while also becoming a more accessible, welcoming space to celebrate creativity." 

The Customs House staircase, constructed from Vermont marble and representing one of the earliest uses of native marble in American architecture, is undergoing meticulous restoration by Fiske and Sons, Inc. The project also includes the installation of an ADA-compliant railing–fabricated by Gene Davis Sales & Services—a crucial step in ensuring the 187-year-old building can serve all members of the community. Following proper historic preservation protocols protects the long-term stability of this National Register landmark while opening new possibilities for public engagement.

The Customs House, built in 1839 as a branch of the Bank of Pennsylvania, was designated a Historic Place by the City of Erie's Historic Planning Commission and City Council, and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. The Erie Art Museum acquired the building in 1983.

Located at 411 State Street, the Customs House has served as the public face of the Erie Art Museum for decades. The preservation project reflects the Museum's commitment to maintaining this architectural treasure as a beautiful and functional space for art, events, and community placemaking. Upon completion of the staircase restoration, the Museum will advance to the next phase: transforming the adjacent courtyard into an outdoor venue for classes, exhibitions, and live music.

The Customs House Preservation Project is made possible through generous support from Mr. Thomas B. Hagen, the Keystone Historic Preservation Project Construction Grant Program, and the Erie Community Foundation.