IT HAPPENED
HERE
Historic structures are reminders of those who ’ ve gone before .
BY PAMELA PALONGUE
While driving around town , it ’ s easy to forget that the history of our area dates back centuries ago to the Native American Indians who first inhabited it , and later the pioneers who struggled to build a life here in the late 1700s . One reason this is easily forgotten is that most of what we see around us was built post-World War II . Rare , ancient , historic structures give us a tangible link with the past and remind us that the stories we have heard are real and actually happened . We ’ re lucky to have three of these structures close by , which have stood throughout skirmishes , foul weather and time .
Photo courtesy of alleghenylandtrust . org .
The Walker-Ewing Log House
The Walker-Ewing Log House at 1352 Noblestown Road in Collier Township was built sometime between 1760 and 1790 , which makes it one of the oldest structures in Allegheny County . This is especially unique since many historic structures of wood have disappeared due to fires . It ’ s listed on the National Register of Historic Places . The structure is now owned by the Allegheny Land Trust to ensure its preservation , and it will have scheduled openings two times a year , possibly more . For more , visit alleghenylandtrust . org , click “ Explore ” and then “ Find a Green Space .”
Photo by Daniel Case .
The Neville House
The Neville House , known as Woodville , is located at 1375 Washington Pike in Bridgeville . You ’ ve likely driven by this home many times . You may have mistaken it for a more modern home because it ’ s so well-maintained . But construction on it started in 1775 and was completed in 1785 . It figured prominently in the famous Whiskey Rebellion in the late 18th century . It will reopen for tours and events in March , but for now , you can prepare for a visit by taking a virtual tour online and reading about the history of this important landmark at woodville-experience . org .
Photo courtesy of oldsaintlukes . org .
Old St . Luke ’ s Church
This charming church , located in Scott Township at 330 Old Washington Pike , was established in 1765 and is the oldest Episcopal church in southwestern Pennsylvania . It was quarried of local stone , and has survived the French and Indian War , the Revolutionary War and the Whiskey Rebellion . In addition to the church , many people like to visit the graveyard , where many of the original settlers of the region were laid to rest . The church has special services throughout the year and serves as a wedding chapel as well . For more information , visit oldsaintlukes . org . n
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