Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation 450 The Landmarks Building One Station Square Pittsburgh, PA 15219
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Number 96 Winter 1985/86 o L985 Year in Review . Land Use in the Strip District A Concept for an Expanding Industry for Pittsburgh Neighborhood Involvement
The Revolving Loan Fund: Landmarks' f{eighborhood Involvement
One of the earliest goals of Landmarks was to establßh a revolving fund for the purpose of restoring historic buildings in Allegheny County without displacing the residents and merchants already liv- ing ín lhe neighborhoods. The concept,. wltich proved very successful in tke 1960s and 1970s, was to use money from the fund to purchøse historic properties which were then resÍored and renovoted for use as apartments\or',. single-family houses. The rental or sale income from the restored properties vlas then relurned to the revolvingfiind, to ' further work in neighborhood reitorø- tion. Landmsrks sicceeded ìn doing" , , tltis in such a way thøt lhe restored . housing was affordable to low- to". modera le- i nco m e fa n i I ies. Mos t of Inndmarks' original aclivíty was on the
IVorlh Síde .where other neíghborhood r')7 organizatíonr soor? took on. the respon- (tlboue:) Restoration action ì¡ baclÁ on Eøst C¡r.çon Street, t/tc So¡¿lb Side'¡ commerci,tl "Mai¿ sibility for neighborhood-wide reslota- Street,"'TÃe Hollandcr Building at 4lJ Easr Ol¡ia Streel on ¡l¡e Nortlt Si¿lc u,a.c l/te large¡f lodn re- tion prcgronts. Stønlel A, Inwe, director of tlte Reaolaing ciþient this yør (be/ou). The present Revolving Loan Fund, Inøn Fund. started in l9B5 under the capable direc- tion of Slanley A. Lowe,'is a moderni- legheny \ù/est Civic Council's desire to zation of Inndmarks' origínal concept. challenge the proposed construction Its purpose is still to preserye historic project. Landmarks' staff has been in- buildings througlt economically feøsible volved in discussions with the Pitts- plàns; but now, rather than using the burgh Planning Department, the State money to acquire and hold or reslore iÍs Historic Preservation Board, the PresiT. projects, own building Landmarks is dent's Advisory Council on Historic Ð providing loans qnd technical assistance . Preservation, and community resi- through íts Revolving Fund to Alleghe- dents. We continue to monitor the pro- ny County neighborhood preservation gress of this development and are will- groups and individuals to assist restora- provide tion projects. The loans ønd technical ing to on-going technical as- assistance ore exlended under certqin sistance until a resolution is reached. conditions which vary from project to Rachel Carson Homestead project, according to the tnerits of each Association ' individuøl case. According to Mr. Lowe, Landmarks approved the Rachel "Landrnarks, comntunily organiTa- Carson Homestead's request for a lions, and applicants are excited'about $5,700Ioan, which will enable the As- lhe new dircctiott the Revolving.Loan sociation to obtain professional ar- Fund is laking becouse it encourages in- chitectural services the preparation itiøtive on the part of local neighbor- for hood/preservation groups and results in of a schematic design and rendering for tnqny urlexpecÍed benefils for tlrc com- the construction of an educational ntunity." wing on the site of the Rachel Carson This year alone, I-andntarks has Homestead in Springdale, Pa. offercd the assistqnce lo vari- following Pittsburgh Tax Task Force ous Pi t ts burg h-a rea nei g hbo rhoods lhrough its Revolving Loan Fund. Federal Historic hrvestment Tax Credit Incentives are being targeted for possible elimination by the 1986 Tax South Side Main Street Program Proposals. Through the Revolving The National Trust for Historic L,oan Fund, Landmarks provided the Mann's Hotel, McKees Rocks North Sicie Neighborhood Housing Preservation has selected East Carson money and technical assistance which Landmarks continues to work with Services, the North Side Civic Develop- Street as one of eight areas nationwide mobilized our local preservation com- Ted and Karen Mann as they proceed ment Council, the Negro Educational to qualify for its "National Urban munity to create Pittsburgh's Tax Task with their plans for a $135,000 hotel Emergency Drive, the Pittsburgh Com- Demonstration Proj ect." Caroli¡re Force. renovation of the 150-year-old build- munity Services, the Neighborhood the St. Clair Vil- Boycq formerly the historic preserva- Hollander Building, ing. Restoration work is scheduled to Centers Association, tion officer of the Department of City begin in 1986. lage Tenants Council, the Northview East Ohio Street Planning, is the project director of the Heights Tenants Council, the West Side A $100,000loan was extended tô a Technical Assistance Of fered East Carson Street restoration pro- Community Development Corpora- neighborhood consortium known as During 1985, Landmarks has provid- gram. Landmarks supported the South tion, tbe Pittsburgh Neighborhood Hollander for the purpose ' ed free technical and economic de- Side t ocal Development's initial appli- Associates, Fund, and Preser.vation Action and the of saving the Victorian building at 415 velopment assistance and program- cation to the National Trust and now NationalTrust in V/ashington D.C. I East Ohio Street. The loan provicled related advice to numerous organiza- provides technical assistance by serving stop-gap financing which gave the tions, including: the Boyle Street Block on the Main Street Advisory Board. partnership time to purchase the struc- Club, the Buena Vista Street Senior Allegheny West llistoric District ture, employ an architect, secure per- Citizen's Program, the North Side When an inappropriate design was manent financing, and lease the space YMCA, the Lawrence JCOLA, the submitted for the construction of a for commercial purposes. Restoration North Side teadership Conference, the teh-story high-rise apart¡nent building and construction work has begun and Greenfield Organization, the Hill Dis- on Brighton Road in Allegheny West, occupancy is scheduled for mid- trict Development Corporation, the Landmarks strongly supf:orted the Al- February. Pittsburgh Board of Code Review, the Fage 2 PHLF News Winter I9B5/86
NIEWS
Welcorne New fuIembers Educøtion Column Jeff Baymor Barbara Lipinski Interviewing an Artifact James L. Chemel Dr. Ceorge J. Magovern, Jr. John Hunter Dane Larry Mathieson Charlotte R. Emery Kathryn S. McDonough Michael D. Eversmeyer Carole Ann Miller Annette Frenrd Mr. & Mrs. Sanford Ochs The artifacts that surround us, whether Alethia Ceorge Bernard A. Petkunas, Jr. they are as small as a dime or as large Scott Cordon Dorothy K. Pfaff as a bridge, are the quiet witnesses and David Graff Mr. & Mrs. Charles O. Rall the tangible products of their makers A.M. Hamilton Mr. & Mrs. John C. Renner P.M. Hamilton Catherine Ryan and users' pasts. After centuries of John S. Husack James D. Silverman relying on the written word for re- Elizabeth K. Johnson Jean L. Sommer search, historians afe no\ry turning to The Reverend David P. Jones William J. Trexler material evidence as a means to inves- Margery H. Lawrence Timothy & Kathryn Vincent past Salem J. læaman Brigitte V. Westgren tigate aspects of the where few William H. lævin The Westin William Penn written traces have been left. The26 teachers who participated in Landmarks' inservice course titled.Ex- Volunreer p lori n g Your Neigh bo r ho od learned Pffile: how to "read" an artifact. Iæarning Fran Kalisch how to "interview" an artifact, to dis- cover the historical information it A seasoned volunteer who has "knowsj' can make a trip to a museum worked at six of Landmarks' eight or antique shop, or a walk around your Antiques Shows and many other neighborhood, much more rewarding. special events, Fran Kalisch loves Introduce yourself to a manageable old, beautiful objects - but most artifact by handling it, trying out its of all she loves people and being working parts, turning it upside down, ,ì of service. Fran is a tiny woman, and reading any inscription. For larger teeming with energy, and a talent- objects, walk around, over, inside, or ed salesperson. under them. Identify the artifact, if A former personnel supervisor possible; but if not, then it a few in the International Companies "ask" relationships the questions. tion or social øt Division of U.S. Steel, Fran time ils mønufacture or use? Interviewing an artifact means tak- of moved to Pittsburgh from the New How does tlús arlifocl compare with ing the time to consciously ask the York City area in 1974. Since her retirement in 1978, Fran has devoted others performing the søme questions that may occur to you sub- function time to her hobbies: woodworking, lurniture refinishing, sewing, and at- at another time or in another cul- consciously. As in any interview, use tending lectures and seminars. She is always ready to volunteer for ture? the question words "Who, What, When, Landmarks because, as she says, "people can give money but giving How has its current, øctual function is you Why, and example: time real service work." Thank Fran for sharing your talent and Wherg Howl'For chønged its original, intended energy with year from our staff this so the Antiques Show and Artifacts Sale What is the function of the artiîact? could be successful public events. function? What materials are used in its con- Why has the object been presemed? slruction? Is it still serving its original function? Librøry ønd Arriføct Donøtions What processes were used in its con- Has another function been found for structíon? ' it? Landmarks gratefully acknowledges the generosity of the following in- Who møde the artifact? Where wqs it its value qs q document of the past dividuals who made t'hese recent donations: Høs made? When was it made? recognized? ¡ Charles and Virginia Kaufman for a l918 Model Burroughs adding been machine and stand. Who used the artifuct originally? Has it been preserved by accident or for used ¡ John Pillar for three railroad baggage carts dating from the 1900-25 How was it used? How is it being sentimental reasons? period. now? Many of the clues to helP answer Where was used r J.R. Sims for an assortment of historic paper documents, including il originally? these questions are embodied in the daguerrotypes, legal agreements, and the personal memoirs of a Civil How long was it in use? materials, construction, design, or en- War veteran. Once information has been gathered vironment of the artifact. Often, how- through this interview, the evidence can ever, curiosity cannot be satisfied even Book Revíew be interpreted. Again ask questions: by a careful inspection. In such cases, What do the materials and methods of turn to museums, old mail-order cata- . Charles Morse Stotz, Outposls the Warfor The French of Empire. and corßlruction reveal aboul the state logs or photographs, or PeoPle who English in Western Pennsylvania: Their Armies, Their Forts, Theír Peo- ol technology? lived about the time of the artifact. ple 1749-1764. Pittsburgh: The Historical Society of Western Pennsylva- What does the artiføct reveal about lhe Some artifacts, unfortunately, will sim- nia, distributed by the University ofPittsburgh Press, 1985. 203 pp., 170 state oÍ transportat ion, com munica- ply remain a mystery. t illustrations. $34.95. Charles Morse Stotz died on March 5, 1985, yet was able to see an advance copy of Oulposls of the Warfor Empire, a book that sums up much of his career as an architectural historian and restoration ar- Tuo Exbibits Aaøiløble to Scbools ønd Librøries chitect, and that, along with The furly Archítecture of Western Penn- sylvania, is his masterpiece in writing. From his youth, Stotz was a lover of the historic architecture oI this part of the state: he sketched it, wrote about it, and reconstructed it from faint traces in the ground and scattered records. His accumulated knowledge is now in one placg as regards the French and Indian War in this region and its military architecture. He begins with an account of the war itself and the events that caused it: not a full, detailed account, but a reliable and illuminating one. Then, to the forts themselves. One by one, he takes 24 French, British, and British colonial forts, carefully explaining how he was able to reconstruct each on paper, telling what happened there, what life there was likg and what role - if any - the fort played in combat. Each fort and its surroundings is represented in a large aerial view, done with the fine artistry of pencil sketching that ar- chitects in Stotz' young days were taught. Old drawings are reproduced to document the re-creations. Finally, there is a technical account ol Stotz' replica of Fort Ligonier, substantiating every detail, illustrating many details, and revealing the modern realities behind the perlect illu- sion of a fort of 1758 returned to existence. With all this there are good human details: the frustrations of a commanding oflicer and the sad life of a common soldier; the Indian in peace and war; the vicissitudes ol enemies who were often polite to each other and of nominal allies who might be at odds with each other. In brief, the book is a classic of its kind, with much for the histori- an and something as well for the aesthete. I
Attention ø/l sc/too/s ønd Librøries,/ Lanclmarks has two exhibits available for PHLF NEV/S is a quarterly publication of the Pittsburgh History & rental that encourage children and adults to explore Pittsburgh's history and architec- Landmarks Foundation. ture. The rental fee îor Landmark Survivors is S75 per month and $200 per month for up and dis- Arthur P. Ziegler, Jr.. . . President Archilecture: The Buitding Arl. Both fees include our staff time in setting Louise King Ferguson .. ..Executive Director/Editor mantling the exhibits and presenting exhibit workshops and curriculum materials to Martin Aurand teachers. Susan K. Donley Presently, Landmark Survivors is at Northgate High School and Architecture: The Tamara Dudukovich Building Art is at East Hills Elementary School. Call Tamara Dudukovich (471-5808) Walter C. Kidney for further infor¡nation or to place your reservations. Both exhibits help bring the study Stanley A. Lowe to life. ChristinaMannSchmidlapp ...... ContributingWriters of architecture and local history Creg Pytlik,/Jean Hodak .Artists ll/inter 1985/86 PHLF News Pøge 3
Awørds of Merit Presented øt Distinguisbed Lecture
Richard D. Edwards, vice-chairman of our Board, presented 'Awards of Mer- it" to 14 deserving individuals who contributed to the preservation of Pittsburgh's architectural heritage or increased public knowledge about our historical heritage. The 1985 award recipients are: Mrs. James H. Childs, Jr., chair- woman of the Committee for the Restoration of Phipps Conservatory from 1975 to 1985. Tlrrough Mrs. Childs' Ieadership, the Committee raised and leveraged over six million dollars in privatg City, and public funds and established and began im- plementing a master plan for the resto- ration of Phipps Conservatory. First South Savings Association, for its unprecedented decision to design and construct its new headquarters' building at 1712 East Carson Street in 1985 auørd recipienß, from left to right. First row: Mrs. James P. Kinard ønd Mrs. RatÀ Scott of Fo//ouing tlt¿ auards ceremoni on Notte-mber the historic style typical of Victorian tlte Røchet Cørion ¡tokesuøã Assoc'iation; Mrs. Doloreí SuartworÍh ønd Mrs. Slteita lYeirtlt of 12, Mrs. Anloinette Downing presented commercial row buildings. Fineaiew Citizens Council; Tlte Reuerend Victor ZucA of Old St. Luäe's; and Mrs. James H. Childs, l¿ndrnarhs' 19$ Distinpuìs/ted l¿cture on of the Comnzittee tlte Resloration of Pltipps Conservølory. Second row: Mrl Eaelyn M. Hir- Hisloic Pre¡eraation. Söe related lter ex- Mrs. Ruth Scott, Mrs. James P. Jr. for tle of the Car¡on Homestead Association; Mn Døaid Hom of Horn Brolhen, lnc.; Mn Don berience¡ in þreseraation in Prouidence, Rachel 'Rltode Kinard, and Mrs, Evelyn Hirtle, for Riggs of WPXI-TV; Mr. Mørfr, Scbneifur of tlte Nortlt Sifu Ciuic Deueloþrnent Coancil; and Ml l¡tanit to lhe national ¡cene. founding the Rachel Carson Home- Sue Beers of tlteJunior lzagae of Pitxbarglt, Inc. stead Association in Springdalq Pa. Thanks to their initiative, the birth- for initiating the Hollander Building ' Mrs. Vinnie D.Ziegler, for 2l years place of noted biologist, author, and restoration project at 415 East Ohio of volunteer service with Landmarks. ecologist Rachel Carson was rescued, Street on the North Side. Henderson Property Associates and restored, and opened as an ecological The JunÍor læague of Pittsburgh, the Fineview Citizens Council for the educational center. Inc. for raising funds for the restora- successful rehabilitation of the Hen- Don Riggs, for promoting Land- tion of a large Victorian house at 841 derson House at Warren and Hender- marks' work in education and historic Lincoln Avenue in Allegheny West, and son Streets in Fineview preservation on Channel ll television. for providing volunteer and financial The Reverend Victor Zuck, for as- The North Side Civic Development assistance in support of the restoration suming responsibility for and restoring Council, the Easf Allegheny Commu- and operation of the Neill Log House Cld St. Luke's, an 1852 Gothic stone nÍty Councìl, and Horn Brofhers, fnc. in Schenley Park. church, in Scott Township. I
Ten Historic Properties Recogni zed
The Historic Designations Committee, Janssen and Abbott was the former chaired by trustee Richard M. Scaife, home of the Hartley Rose Belting convened on September 30 to review Company. nominations for Landmarks' plaques. Longue Vue Club, Oakwood Road, For l8 years, historic structures Penn Hills (1925): Here, French rural throughout Allegheny County have architecture is employed in a sophisti- been marked with the now-familiar cated complex by Janssen and Cocken. bronze and red or blue aluminum Moreland-Hoffstof House, 5057 plaques. Each plaque is a public educa- Fifth Avenue, Shadyside (1914): The tion tool: it proclaims the significance French Renaissance mansion designed of a valuable element of our architec- by Paul Irwin is a glorious survivor of tural heritage. Properties determined Shadyside's Row" eligible to purchase Landmarks' "Millionaire's Murray House, 423 V/ashington plaques this year are: Road, Bridgeville (c. 1830): The brick Ellsworth Terracg Shadyside (l 91 3): Greek Revival house with a saltbox A private cul-de-sac north of Ellsworth roof was recently rehabilitated. Avenue is lined with Edwardian row- Oakmont Country Club, Hulton house/cottages. Road, Plum (190a): The sprawling Hampfon Hall, 166 North Dithridge clubhouse designed by Edward Stotz Street, Oakland (1932): The elegant complements a championship calibre brewer John Ober, has intact exterior ple of a small masonry bridge. apartment house is an excellent exam- golfcourse. and interior detailing. Charles Schwab House, (top right), ple of Tudor Revival architecture. Ober-Guehl Housg (pictured at bot- "Old Stone Bridge," (top lelt), Old 541 Jones Avenue, North Braddock Hartley-Rose Building, 425 First tom right), l50l Lowrie Street, Troy V/illiam Penn Highway, Monroeville (1893): The imposing Chateauesque Avenue, Downtown (1907); The Beaux Hill (1877): The Italian Villa/Stick (c. 1870): Although out-of-service, the residence was built for Charles Schwab Arts commercial building designed by Style house, originally the home of bridge is an excellent preserved exam- of Carnegie Steel Corporation. I Page 4 PHLF News Winter Ì985/86
Innd Use in the Strip District: Preserving un Exßting Asset
In considerøtion of-|he Strip District's ltistoricøl identity øs øn industriøl, wørebousing, ønd food-distibution dutrict, its speciø/ c/tørøcter øs ø spontøneous ønd co/orfu/ comrnerciît en- uironment, ønd its present econorrzic uiøbi/ity ønd uitø/ity, Pittsburgh History & I^øndrnørÃs Foundøtion be/ieues tbøt tlte Strip District s/tou/d be þreserued and encoarøged to tltriue in its þresent form. Anticipøted mø1or redeuelopment of the øreø would substøntiølly irnpøct tlte dis- tyct in ø n_egøtiue mønner not in the best interests of tlte city ønd its peop/e. Tl¡e district's prob- lems need to be øddressed, but drøstic surgery is not rçquiied. Hønning for tlte Strip District sltou/d insteød accomnzodøte ønd prornote tlte øreø's sp,eciø/ role in úliegionø/ màrhetþ/øce.
Historical Significance The Strip District was first developed primarily as an industrial placq al- though housing and institutional uses have always been present here as well. Shipping operations and ironworks were established as were the original Westinghouse plants of the 1870s. The commercial production of aluminum began here in 1888. Later, wholesale and warehouse uses became common. After the turn of the century, food dis- tribution became a major element of local commerce. .11!; i.¡\ I.: '... 1,Vïf' ,?r...:r."¡¡rî, Numerous historic buildings which "s, :¡.'1r ,Þ_ ¿*.ì[ iç'¡ oli¡i lþg, are representative of the area's past re- t*ti ffi main in the Strip District. Many have long-term uses; others, such as the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre's new build- ing, are creating new uses; and others, such as the important Armstrong Cork Company complex, await creative re- use. One major building, the Pennsyl- vania Railroad produce warehouse along Smallman Street, has been re- stored by the City to co¡rtinue its his- toric use. of the Strip District. Substantial rede - of small businesses and the de- in place in the Strip District; the velopment in the area of the Strip District velopment of housing. riverfront land owned by the would likely alter its historic identity 3. The market for more specialty re- Buncher Company offeis the and relation to the Triangle; diminish tail is questionable. New develop- greatest resource near dorvntown Current Status its unique character and appeal; and ments like Station Square, the for the construction of new hous- 'Warner In its current form as a food dis- threaten its economic well-being Centre, the Bank Center, ing, o[her than that at Station tribution, general wholesaling, and through competition and increasing and One Oxford Centre should be Square. This housing would be light industrial area, the Strip District land values. The elevated bridge of the strengthened before more projects enhanced by its proximity to the is a thriving marketplace used by many Crosstown Expressway is already im- are developed. In addition, cit- business center, by the riverfront, thousands of Pittsburghers, and a tour- pacting the district. The web of forces ies that have developed a large and by the presence of Strip Dis- ist attraction in its own right. By night, ànd characteristics which makes the mixed-use project featuring spe- trict merchants. Residents of such food products are unloaded and sold Strip District work is complex but frag- cialty retail on a waterfront have housing would in turn enhance wholesale; by day, householders crowd ile. It could easily be destroyed. The not found it prudent to develop the traditional mixture of housing the streets and buy at retail. Shops and festive retail center, now being pro- two in competition. Each city has and commerce in the district, sup- sidewalks alike are filled with a color- posed by the Buncher Company and wisely built further on the port the merchants, and increase ful array of produce and other food Enterprise Development Company, strengths of the first, in our case, economic activity without driving and non-food products. The street- would dramatically increase land Station Square. up land values. Housing at both is random scape and rough and tum- values; the record of similar festival 4. Station Square, with five historic the Strip and Station Square ble; the atmosphere is casual and spon- centers in that regard is clear. In timq railroad buildings and a prime river- would help, not compete with, taneous. These characteristics, and the retail the festival retail center would drive up front location directly opposite the new downtown office and range and value of merchandise, have rents beyond the reach produce as well as our cultural facilities. of the Point and below the tourist mecca endeared the Strip District to Pitts- merchants. Existing restaurants would of Mt. Washington, need not fear 6. The Strip District's problems burghers. It has also become home to a suffer the same fate. the Strip District development. But identilied above should be ad- variety of restaurants related themati- a comprehensive plan we, as citizens of the City, should dressed in cally to the produce markets. focusing on improvements in present, fear it because it is expensive, off- At the Strip District is a sol- We believe fhat: these areas of sanitation, traffic, target for our future well-being, and id and economically viable element of L The reality of the Strip should be and parking. the Pittsburgh marketplace. The dis- protected, not replaced by an ar- potentially disruptive to the Strip trict provides unique opportunities for tificial and expensive new de- and its old buildings, as we know Conclusion small businesses. Here, the merchants velopment. lily'e believe that Pike them. The proposed 85,000-square- and their busi¡resses are the major at- Place in Seattle, where an existing foot festival retail development in We believe that a comprehensive traction; and business is good. In addi- marketplace district was carefully the Strip District would require sub- plan for the improvement oI the Strip District's problems should be prepared; tion, the shops and other businesses preserved and encouraged, is a stantial public funds, estimated as that small businesses should be en- provide employment opportunities, better model in this case than the high as $35-$50 million nearly couraged to remain in the Strip District particularly for unskilled labor. waterfront projects developed by an enormous- $500 a square foot, Buncher land The City of Pittsburgh, by deciding the Enterprise Development and that the Company taxpayer cost. should be developed for housing; that not to relocate produce yards and by Company. In fact, as the Enter- rùy'e do not believe, as some would facility should not restoring the former Pennsylvania Rail- prise market format duplicates it- another festive retail claim, that an adjacent attraction along water- road produce warehouse, has already self, the Strip District in its cur- be developed Pittsburgh's like the Buncher/Enterprise Compa- made a significant commitment to and rent uniqueness will become even front that would require substantial ny project is necessary to make the investment in the Strip District's cur- more significant. Recent dissatis- public funding, but that the proposed Convention Center "work." Most rent nature and function. faction has been growing in re- Science Center and theme park for the cities gard to the repetitive forms of convention centers in other Stadium area and a history center and these festival centers. stand on their own, and it is advan- existing retail at Station Square should tageous if conventioneers are enticed 2. Retail, office, and entertainment be supported; that major retail, office Current Problems to move from site to site throughout should be located in the Triangle and hotel structures should not be en- the center city. Improved marketing Agreement exists that the following and on the river shores directli, couraged beyond the business center of of the Center, the new Liberty Cen- problems in the Strip District must be opposite, so that the unique three the Triangle and the riverfronts facing ter and a new boat dock addressed. Currently, the Department rivers and the Point area can be- hotel, it; and that the economics and special make the of City Planning is examining these come a nationally marketable fo- should be sufficient to characteristics of the Strip District and other problems: cus for tourist and business de- Convention Center work. should be permitted to grow and de- velop incrementally, based on the natu- l. Sanitary Conditions velopment. This core area is visa- 5. Small businesses and housing ral and existing market. Such an ap- 2. Traffic (including both through ble, supports a national image should be encouraged behind the proach would preserve the histor- and destination traffic) which Pittsburgh has worked business center of the Triangle area's protect vital 3. Parking hard to create, and is highly func- and on the north and south ic identity and fabric; its tional. This policy would restrict shores. This holds true for the characteristics for Pittsburghers and It is our opinion, though, that these the escalation of land values in North Side and South Side as well tourists alike; and promote economic problems should and can be solved areas like the Strip District that in as for the Strip District. Viable well-being through new housing and while maintaining the present character turn precludes the encouragement small business activity is already the protection of small businesses. I lltinter 1985/86 PHLF News Page 5
A Concept for an Expanding Industry for Pittsburgh: Tourism, the Rivefs, and the Point
As an orgønization long dedicøted to the preservation and city, and as a participant in the urbøn 'developmentpromotion of our process, Pittsburgh History & Landmarks HOUSING Foundation presents this statement in response to the many projects which ãre currently being proposed for the Golden Tliangle orea.
We believe that the area of the Point . Public transportation provided by and its immediate surroundings is PAT includes the PoPular new Pittsburgh's most unique and marketa- Light Rail Transit and buswaYs. ble physical asset. No other city in the o inclines ascend Mount country has Pittsburgh's spectacular Tltto novel landscape of steeply rising hills, three Washington. expansive rivers, and six beautiful ¡ The Gateway Clipper joined fleet Pro- waterfronts, all at a downtown vides a variety of river transporta- with an exciting compact central busi- tion options and is poised to meet ness district and a great park and foun- future needs and further Prove tain at the forefront. No other city has that the rivers can be connecting the opportunity to develop its business- not separating elements of retail-éntertainment center to fit such a Pittsburgh's- urban- fabric. landscape with both ease and drama, HOUSING and the potential to attract millions of . Three rail routes converge at the visitors. The productive development Triangle: the PennsYlvania, B & O, P AlreadY, thousands of the Golden Triangle area requires a and & LE. HOUSING plan for appropriate land use and coor- of visitors arrive for one-daY ex- ãinated development which capitalizes cursions by train. on our unique urban landscaPg and a new emphasis on tourism as a major These sites and linkages, both pres- local industrY. ent and planned, are highly visible, Tourism is a clean and enduring in- mutually complementary, and geo- dustry that brings economic benefits to graphically focused on the city's natu- many segments of the communitY. It ral focal poin,t - the Point and its sur- requires many forms of labor, and pro- rounding landscape. If encouraged and vides a good return on investment. augmented, they have the potential to Tourism is now one of the major forms form the one major attraction neces- of economic development in every state sary to launch tourism as a major local and city. Pittsburgh's share has been industry. No large new public invest- low because of a Poor image, lack of ment is required, but a mixture of pub- attractions, and fragmented marketing. lic and private funds will be necessary But with our designation as America's to turn potential into a solid tourist at- . A joint regional and nationul long-standing goal of increased "Most Livable City," and the appropri- traction and leverage many millions p ro mot ional camp aígn sPonsored residential use in and adjacent to ate development and promotion of our more in private investment. by the City, the Greater Pittsburgh Downtown, thus contributing to the unique qualities, we can, with minimal Convention and Visitors Bureau, around-the-clock use and vitality of new investment, make immediate giant the Golden Triangle Association, the Golden Triangle. The Pennsylvania strides in tourism develoPment. the Downtown Restaurant and Station, currently undergoing conver- Hrhú do we need to realíze thìs Tavern Association, the Western sion to apartments at the doorstep of potentiøl? PhysícallY we need: Pennsylvania Restaurant Associa- the District, in fact sets the theme for nNn, a huge ínvest- tion, Station Square, and local cul- close-in residential development ring- To ruls . Stadium areø development includ- This campaign ing the Triangle. in and tural institutions. ment ìs already Place, ing the proposed children's theme specifically promote the should lrt us develop our new and creative much more is planned, park and fhe science center al- unique landscapg the Permanent ideas and build attractions which o with its business ready committed by Buhl Science attractions and their linkages, and Downtown capitalize on Pittsburgh's unique and retail strength,- new cultural Center. ' the events program. characteristics, and which are thereby district, hotels, restaurants, Civic c Infrastructure extensions at Sta- capable of withstanding the tests of Arena, and riverfront Convention expansion tion Square to facilitate time and competition and are all the Center is undergoing a con- permanent festival THESE ACTIONS could transform - including a more likely to attract millions of visi- tinuous Renaissance and Presents structure. Pittsburgh's entire center city into a an exciting visual image. major attraction. Consider the colo.r tors. ¡ The history center and museum at and vitality of a dramatic urban land- . The North Shore features new of- the Lawrence Paint Building. scape with sites like Point State Park fice and restaurant develoPment, and the Fort Pitt Museum, the new his- with additional develoPment to . More hotels, including new ones tory center, the new science center, come, along the AlleghenY River. already planned at Station Square and Downtown. theme park and Stadium, the Conven- . Three Rivers Stadium, with its tion Center, Station Square with its fes- Steelers and Pirates, is a major at- o A trolley ó¿s connecting the in- tival market and flow of special events, traction and is to be the focus of clines at top and bottom, and a ca- and Mount Washington, all directly new large-scale development along ble car connecting the North and linked by transportation routes the Ohio River. South Shores, operating between shuttling residents and visitors betwee¡r the science center,/Stadium and the North and South shores and Down- . represents an Station Square alone the history center/Duquesne In- town. over million in investment of $70 cline. The development program which we retail, restaurant, and en- office, have outlined fully encompasses the facilities, and major . Expansion of river trqnsportation tertainment Golden Triangle and the Point, and the is planned for the fifty- requiring a major boat dock at the expansion 'Convention shore areas directly opposite the Point the Monongahela Center and more acre site along which are ripe for development. River. waterfront facilities for pleasure boats along the North Shore and Vy'e believe that the Golden Triangle, . The Lawrence Paint Building is at Station Square. the Point and the shore areas directly available for reuse as a ProPosed opposite, should be ringed by residen- history center and museum as Part . Smithfied Street Bridge uPgrad- tial areas. These should include: of the Station Square development' ing. . The established neighborhoods of . Point State THE CITV its citizens, existing bus- Ame¡tities include the North and South Sides and inesses, private investors, and lourists Park with its Fort Pitt Museum Mount Washington. Roberto alike will benefit public attrac- and concert stage, Vl/e ølso need to "sell the prod- . A renewed Hill District. trom Land- tions, improved transportation, in- Clemente Park, AlleghenY ¡ New housing east of the Smith- garden, and uct," whích requires: creased housing opportunities, and ing with its sculPture field Street Bridge af Station Square. overall economic expansion the the open space at Station . An events prograrn that will em- Square. potentiøl of this program- brace our shores and rivers and the . New housing on the Buncher land frttits for fo- city, and attract peo- cused urban growth. Major commit- interlaced bY entire ce¡rter in the Strip District. These elements sre ple to Pittsburgh. The Three ments to Point-focused development transp ortat ion ro utes. Rivers Regatta, which attracts over In the Strip District, as well as in have been made and will continue to be . Automobile access is excellent and 500,000 people YearlY, uses all six North and South Side neighborhoods, made. The community st lsrge must getting better with present bridges waterfronts, and encourages residential use will best support the ex- now articulate this vision, and act on plans capable of promoting and exPresswaYs and a new net- movement between Downtown isting local commerce. Housing in the uniquely work of expressways under con- and the North and South shores, is Strip District and the Hilland at Sta- Pittsburgh and attracting vìsitors to struction to the north. an excellent model. tion Sguare would support the city's our great city. I 'Page 6 PHLF News Winter I9BS/86
Notes of Interest r lnterior improvements are underway at r The first meeting of the Ma¡n Sfreet Pro- the Neville House (1785) on Washington gram for East Carson Street on the South PreserYation Scene Pike in Bridgeville, thanks to the Side was held on October 15. Representa- generosity and support of many capital tives of the National Trust for Historic campaign contributors. The Colonial Preservation, Landmarks, South Side Dames of America is planning to furnish businesses, and the South Side l,ocal De- and redecorate the dining room of the velopment Corporation met with Main house, under the guidance of chapter Street project director Caroline Boyce to president and Landmarks trustee Mrs. discuss the planning process for the next David L. Genter. The second floor of the two years. This will include a complete house is being replastered as a result of inventory of the East Carson Street the proceeds generated from the Neville Historic District. House Auxiliary's fund-raising fashion show and raffle in September. r Until this summer, the Post Office on Shiloh Street in Mount Washington was a 1900 survivor, with a colored tile floor, . With the newly opened extension of the high ceiling, walls and wainscoting of an Route 28 expressway at Exit l5 just yards unmemorable official hue, and a screen away, the Burlner House in Natrona ofjoinery neither plain nor fancy be- Heights is more accessible to visitors tween public and staff. In the big win- than ever before. Special tours of the dows toward Shiloh Street were potted historic stone manse (1818-21) can be ar- plants. ranged by calling 224-7 537 . Slide presen- Now it has been modernized out ol tations which focus on \Mestern Pennsyl- recognition: no window area to speak of, vania history, the settlement of the Al- but a luke-warm smear of fluorescent legheny Valley, and the construc- lighting over pale-tan walls and lowered tion/restoration of the Burtner House ceilings. We urge local residents to call are also available for club programs. for the return of the original Post Office. r The Lawrence Paint Building, at the west ¡ A curious phenomenon at 1328 Damas end of Station Square near the base of Street on Spring Hill was recently the Duquesne Incline, and the nearby brought to our attention by Richard D. North Pole Ice Cream property are to be Edwards, vice-chairman of our Board. developed in a joint partnership of Land- This castle-like construction of stone, marks and a partnership consisting of brick, and concrete was the personal, Christopher Passodelis, Sam Zacharias, hand-made creation of one Iæo Berger, John Mouganis, and Thomas Eddy, an Austrian-born baker who built a former owners, with Landmarks as house on this property in c. 1932. There- managing partner. after, he labored to fulfill a vision the The Lawrence Paint Building, a brick- creation of a replica of the view from- his and-timber structure of 1897 with no window when he was a youth in Austria, known architect, is a survivor of the old This labor ollove, an architectural "fol- industrial neighborhood of Limerick. ly," is an intriguing reminder of our Pittsburghers have long admired the broad cultural roots and speaks to us of building and wished that some use could the human delight in unusual construc- be found for it, and now its rehabilitation tions and Romantic images. is certain. Six-storied, of heavy timber Our staff is now contacting preserva- construction, with ceilings up to 24 feet tion enthusiasts in the area so a plan can tall and with 100,000 square feet o[ floor be implemented to ensure the main- space, the Lawrence Paint Building may tenance of this unique landmark. become the "history center" that the Pittsburgh region should have: a feasibil- ity study will be made with this use in ¡ On September 18, the Philadelphia öe- r Architecturai consciousness is on the rise r Greysfone Associates is developing two mind. Architectural studies in regard to velopment firm Historic Landmarks for in Downtown Pittsburgh. The Koppers properties, formerly belonging to the exterior restoration of the structure Living introduced the public to their first Building has long offered visitors an ex- Chatham College, at Fifth Avenue and are now underway by Landmarks Design Pittsburgh adaptive work, the "School- emplary brochure describing the building Woodland Road. "Willow Cottage," the Associates. house." This is a remodeling of the old history and its architecture. PPG Place Victorian Gothic house next to Wood- Latimer School, in the Dutchtown area now offers a similar brochure. At the land Road, will be restored externally; its . Several North Side neighborhood organi- of the North Side, into 77 apartments. Park Building, a first-floor public hall- interiors, cheaply remodeled already, will zations, developers, contractors, and in- Rents are high but so are the ceilings, and way has been outfitted with a succession retain only the surviving trim and man- dividuals are discussing expansion of the this Fred Sauer building of 1898 in yellow of showcases filled with hi$toric photo- telpieces. "Greystone," the nearby Bene- present boundaries of the Mexican War brick looks as it did when built, save for graphs and architectural drawings. The dum mansion, will retain its major interi- Streets Historic District to the east, west, a new dark-green canopy of steel and Westin William Penn Hotel, recently list- ors though it will be divided into five and south. Landmarks supports this idea cloth. ed on the National Register of Historic homes. Some old trees and garden fea- and is willing to provide guidance. Places, has used copies of the hotel's tures will remain, but there will be new original plans acquired from Landmarks construction to designs by Arthur Lubetz ¡ "Mechânic's Retreat," the original name ¡ Stanley l¡we and Christina Schmidlapp for a lobby showcase display, and has Associates for 47 families on the for the Mexican War Streets area, has represented Landmarks at the 1985 con- adopted the advertising slogan: "Pitts- grounds. I been revived to designate a little park in vent¡on of the National Trust for Histor- burgh's National Landmark Hotel." the neighborhood at Buena Vista and ic Preservation, held in Seattle from Oc- Jacksonia Streets. Occupying the former tober 9 to 13. They report a mood of cau- site of a brick double house, the park is tious optimism. The Investment Tax to be laid out in its greater area with Credit question an all-important mat- Preseruing Significønt Art'iføcts plans of the now-gone buildings, the ter for developers- thinking of restoring walls represented in brick, the room National Register properties - is likely Notable artifacts that have been given or tional Historic Civil Engineering Land- spaces by sand. The former yard areas to be settled as follows: the maximum promised to Landmarks in 1985 include: mark in October 1985. are to be planted in creeping juniper, and credit now available of 25Vo will proba- o The first electric-arc steelmaking furnace . An ingot mold from the Shenango Cornpa- one extant oak tree and three sophora bly drop to 200/0, a rate still high enough used in the United States: a furnace ny and a steam reciprocating blowing en- japonica trees will provide shade. The to encourage developers. Federal funding Heroult of 1905 imported from France and donated gine, 45 feet high. plan for the park was prepared by Land- for the Trust will stay at 1985 levels, it is by the Crucible Materials Corporation divi- marks Design Associates. The land for believed, and on the bright side, a Mari- . Two bisque ceramic figurines, the gilt of sion of Colt Industries, Inc. the park was donated by Landmarks' time Preservation department has been Edgar H. Kratz ol Gibsonia. Board chairman Charles C. Arensberg, created to give attention to the special . 1929 Mack pumper firetruck, given by Through the agency of William C. King, his son, and Walter D. Toole. problems of saving historic vessels, the Borough volunteer fire com- ^ Liberty vice-president of The Historical Society of pany. Western Pennsylvania and former Culf Oil ¡ A 2000-watt rotary converter, built by Wes- executive, valuable technical exhibits and tinghouse Electric in 1925 and last used at archival material from the Harmarville Re- South Hills Junction to supply up to 50 search Center of Culf have been placed in trolleys with 600-volt direct current at 5,000 storage by the Allegheny Conference on amperes. Landmarks quickly provided a Community Development with an eye to- $10,000 six-month loan so the converter ward the "history center" that local histori- could be purchased from the scrap metalist. callcultural groups hope to form. I _i_' . ,r"'. i.:':...1,_ f:1 i,:l':)l: ' r' . : A "sub-ladle" hot-metal car, used to carry z molten, newly smelted iron to steelmaking Give a'Landmørks Present equipment in U.S. Steel's National Works. o i Give a friend or relative the present of U) ¡ TWo bottle engines, fireless engines that ran , a LandmarksÌ inembership. Ännual Y youi () on an occasional charge of steam, from the , dues begin at $15 and one-time Mesta Machine Company. Landmarks had eift has a year's worth of value. News- . Ti to pay the scrap value of $10,000 to obtain letters and invitations for tours, lec- . - :' ; them. '' tures, and special events âre mailed , throughout-theyeart:, andyourcon-'' . The sliding lock-gate gear assembly from ;'.i:: , tribution supports the vçry worthy , the Davis Island Dam of 1885, a gift from ; goal of preserving our architeqtural ; : the Pittsburgh Engineer District ol the U.S. ¡ heritage and promotirig interest in lo-l Army Corps of Engineers. The Davis Is- calhistory. :', ,. : land lock and Dam was dedicated as a Na- -.r, Winter 1985/86 PHLF News Page 7 1985; Yeur in Review
preservation forum ¡ Work on the Schenley Park Centennial r Almost 3,000 members and friends partici- LET US PAUSE for a moment in the ¡ On July 27, we hosted a We have ar- Restoration program was begun., pated in our tour program, visiting East look focusing on the Strip District. t. fast pace of our daily lives and , , Liverpool, Ohio, many Pittsburgh neigh- ticutated a strong position on that issue, among back on this year. In many ways, it has . On March 5, we hosted a discussion down- and proposed a master concept for land use borlioods and ethnic churches, and been a year of unparalleled accom' historical groups an{ cotnrnunity leaders development in the GoldenTrianglg , torrvn preservation areas. plishments: and interested in establishing a major history,r' industry. r leading to a vigorous tourist center in Pittsburgh. On September 4, we . An oral Ìiistory on the Papercraft Corpora- . Thanks to the generous support of our o Through a grant from the Pennsylvania secured a site :-- the Lawrence Paint Build- tion, the first in a series ofcorporate histo- trustees, members, and private foundations, hope proves feasibtç ;.ries, was completed in November. Historical & Museum Commission, we ing -'wþiçh,we fqr, ' we have successfully completed the Capital center. nominated six sites, six districts, and two use as a history . 100 of our members volun- Funds Campaign, and implemented many Approximately thematic groups to the National Register of teered to help make the October Antiques of the programs proposed in our Five Year . The $tafion $quare Transportation Muse' , Historic Places. To date, six of our nomina- public Master PIan, published in 1982 at the out- um opened on October 15 and hundreds of Show and Artifacts Sale successful tions have been /¡s/¿d on the National Reg- people designed events. set of the Campaign. have visited the ingeniously ister of Historic Places. vint4ge autos and historic trans. display of r And over 100 peoplejoined Landmarks this ¡ Our relationships with neighborhood and . Landmark Architecture: Pitlsburgh and poitation memorabilia,, Admission is free year, percent groups have been strengthened, while eighty-five of our mem- communily Landmarks. ,. Atlegheny County was released on Septem- to members of bers renewed their membership support. and we continue to be a respected leader on ber 26 to public and critical acclaim. Ovcr the national preservation scene. ¡ Hundreds of scl¡ool teachers and students 2,000 copies were sold in two months' We plqn to catch our breath on havE participated in qur edqcational , we ', r Th¡ough our Revolving Loan Fund, programq which have bççn qtrengthened as . December 25th, ond then begin work and restora- jwt * have helped ensure the survival a result of the Revolving Fund for Educa- ahead of schedule on the properties' - tion of several historic tion, est3blishçd lhrgugh a generous grant newyean f from the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation.
What's being said about Landmark Architecture l6Co,,nt this as a prediction: A Pittsburgh keepsake has been introduced fodây that will be treasured in many local homes, offices and libraries for lots of years t A Decøde of Accomþlisltnzent The Committee for the Restoration of Phipps Conseryatory 1985 marked the beginning of a new and up the other side into the main non-profit organization in Pittsburgh, power station in Oakland. Phipps Friends. This membership or- Through the efforts of the Restora- ganization, now under the capable tion Committeg new heating and light- leadership of Mrs. David S. Ketchum, ing systems were installed, major struc- unifies and expands upon the work of tural and restoration repairs were made three previously separate groups: the in the majority of the Conservatory Committee for the Restoration of rooms, benches were installed in mem- Phipps Conservatory, a volunteer aux- ory of two founding Committee mem- iliary of Landmarks; the City of Pitts- bers, four fountains were renovated, burgh, owner of Phipps Conservatory; and discussions began on the creation and the educational committee of the of a new entry and educational wing Conservatory. which continue today. It is appropriate to briefly document The Committee members became ex- the accomplishments of the Restora- tremely effective in fund raising and tion Committee in this year-end issue learned how to work skillfully with of PHLF News, since its members City officials. At the same time, they worked tirelessly for l0 years to raise worked quietly serving the public: funds for the restoration of the historic utilizing the Conservatory for both structure in SÖhenley Park. educational programming and for Mrs. James H. Childs, Jr., a trustee pleasant social occasions and support- of Landmarks, served as chairwoman ing the docent and tour programs that of the Committee for the Restoration were growing in popularity as a result of Phipps Conservatory from its incep- of the improved Conservatory environ- tion in 1975 to 1985. Originally, the ment. In short, they proved themselves Committee thought that $250,000 the equal of the huge task before them. would be needed to repair the glass Several Committee members now houses ofthe Conservatory. But a serve on the Board of Phipps Friends, study commissioned by the Committee so their experience and expertise in resulted in a dire analysis: restoration continues to benefit the ¡ The Conservatory needed to be al- Conservatory and public. I most entirely reglazed. ¡ New mullions were needed to hold the glazing. ¡ The ventilation system needed to be improved. ¡ There were no drains in the floors, the plumbing and all the walkways were in bad condition, and the heat- ing was tenuous at best. The total bill for these essential im- provements was estimated between five and seven million dollars. Undaunted, the Committee set forth with Landmarks' guidance and in cooperation with l¡uise Brown, direc- tor of the City Parks and Recreation, and Edward Vasilcik, director of the Conservatory. In the ensuing years, the City committed major capital funds to improve the Conservatory and the Committee raised close to one million dollars in private funds. In addition, the Federal government announced an application for funding from the Pub- lic V/orks Department which resulted in a two million dollar grant for the new heating which entailed system, Pbiþþj Conseraøtory in Schenle"t ParÁ wøs desìpned in 1893 by Lord & Burnlta¡¡z oflrainglon, New Yorh. Belween 1975 and 198t, tbe Conznzittee trenching under a road, down into the for-ùte Restorat;on ôf eh;pps Cõnseruatory þ ailunteer aaxitiary of lzndmarÁ,s) and the-City of Pìttsburgh røised aþproximately six nzillion dollar¡ valley and under the railroad tracks, for ilte renoaalion of t/te Conseraatory. S c h en/ey Pørk Restorøtion Study l\ow Complete Landmarks is pleased to announce that paign and advisory board to raise Environmental Planning & Design has funds to implement restoration plans completed a study of Schenley Park, in Phase II. Some of Landmarks' funded in part by a generous grant events in 1986 tours, lectures, and from the Pittsburgh Parks and seminars will- focus public attention Playgrounds. The study, to be featured on the Park's- history, significance, and in the Spring issue of PlllF News, need for restoration attention. provides an inventory of the Park's sig- This restoration project is an out- nificant landscapg sculpturq and ar- growth of the National Register nomi- chitectural features, assesses the condi- nation for Schenley Park prepared by tion of these features, and estimates Landmarks in June. As a historic land- their restoration costs. scape, Schenley Park is Pittsburgh's Initiated at the request of Land- best example of the nineteenth century marks in cooperation with the City of Iarge urban park, an important plan- Pittsburgh, the study represents part of ning feature of many industrialized cit- Phase I ofthe Schenley Park Restora- ies. Since Schenley Park will be 100 tion Project. Christina Schmidlapp, years old in 1989, it is an opportune project director, is thoroughly research- time to focus public attention on the ing the Park's history, consulting park need for restoration and improved park support groups in cities across the na- maintenance. I tion, and organizing a capital cam-