Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial was established to honor those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812 and to celebrate the long-lasting peace among Great Britain, Canada, and the U.S. The Memorial, a Doric column rising 352 feet over Lake Erie, is situated 5 miles from the longest undefended border in the world. Summer months can be extremely hot and humid, with occasional and sudden severe thunderstorms. Fall and spring are pleasant with cool temperatures and brisk winds. During the winter the Memorial and Visitor Center are closed.