Celebrating history: Mercyhurst installs new interpretive markers for Homecoming
As the countdown to Mercyhurst’s centennial celebration in 2026 continues, what were once whispers of ideas are being transformed into vibrant realities. This past week, just in time for Homecoming festivities, the university installed the second and third in a series of 12 interpretive markers designed to illuminate its rich historical legacy.
The latest markers include one gracing the interior wall of Old Main’s east entrance, aptly titled “The Scene of Many Gracious Moments.” The plaque showcases the iconic four-story O’Neil Tower and Christ the King Chapel, both of which stand as testaments to the university's architectural splendor and spiritual essence.
The second marker, “Mother Borgia & the Pioneer Sisters of Mercyhurst College,” narrates the inspiring saga of Mercyhurst’s founding, spotlighting the sisters’ ingenuity and relentless spirit as they secured the college’s charter in 1928.
This initiative is a result of efforts by the Historical Subcommittee of the Mercyhurst Centennial Steering Committee established by President Kathy Getz in 2022 and chaired by Jeanette Britt, chief operating officer.
“These markers distill the essence of two rich Mercyhurst stories: the architectural elegance, sacred beauty, and history of O'Neil Tower and Christ the King Chapel, and the courage and intellectual and spiritual vision of Mother Borgia and the Pioneer Sisters of Mercy,” said Dr. Chris Magoc, who directs the marker project for the Historical Subcommittee.
With markers four, five, and six already in the design phase, plans are underway to create a guided tour map for the centennial website once the project reaches completion.
Meanwhile, Public History students conducted oral histories with key figures whose dedication over the decades has propelled the university forward. Notable interviewees include Allan Belovarac, Tom Billingsley, Pat Weschler, and Sheila Richter.
Magoc noted that these interviews will complement the more than 40 oral histories gathered by the late Larie Pintea, former managing editor of the Erie Morning News, creating a rich legacy for future generations to explore and cherish.
Finally, the committee continues to take the necessary steps in an arduous process to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As envisioned, the Mercyhurst National Historic District would be anchored by institutional cornerstones Old Main and Christ the King Chapel but will extend across much of the campus and include buildings erected into the late 1960s. Once listed, Mercyhurst would join a select group of institutions in Pennsylvania with expansive historic districts, led by the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Pittsburgh.