Community Gems
months of the year , be sure to call ahead to verify times .
Western Pennsylvania Model Railroad Museum 5507 Lakeside Drive , Gibsonia 724.444.6944 , wpmrm . org
This museum features a 40 ’ x100 ’ model railroad that represents the tracks between Pittsburgh and Cumberland , Maryland . The model is forever locked in its summer 1952 setting and will delight both the young and the young at heart . It also houses a collection of historical model train sets and railroad-related items , some of which date back to the early 20th century .
SOUTH
Bethel Park Historical Society Museum
2600 South Park Road , Bethel Park 412.835.9898 , facebook . com / BethelParkHistoricalSociety
Located in the former 1905 Bethel Township High School building , this is four museums in one with each room representing a different vignette of history : a military history room honoring veterans , a coal miners room featuring the heritage of those who built the area , a classroom highlighting the different eras of education , and a library room . Reginald ’ s Coffee Shop is available to enjoy some refreshments on the lawn , weather permitting . To plan a visit , message the historical society on Facebook or call . Group tours are also available .
Bethel Presbyterian Church Cemetery
2999 Bethel Church Road , Bethel Park 412.835.0405 , bethelpresby . org
Founded in 1776 , this cemetery is the final resting place of 14 Revolutionary War soldiers and the church is home to a treasure trove of records for those
with family roots in the area doing genealogical research . The cemetery may be visited anytime , but for church records research you ’ ll need an appointment .
Bradford House Museum 175 South Main Street , Washington 724.222.3604 , bradfordhouse . org
Step back in time through this home that was completed in 1788 and was the residence of the family of David Bradley , a leader of the famous Whiskey Rebellion . A National Historic Landmark , it is furnished with period artifacts and holds special events throughout the year . It ’ s a very economical museum for families to visit , at just $ 5 per person for a guided tour .
Bridgeville Area Historical Society Museum
441 Station Street , Bridgeville 412.221.4052 , bridgevillehistory . org
This little museum was a train caboose in its former life , which makes it a delightful place for children to visit . But there ’ s plenty for adults as well since the collection grows with constant donations from the surrounding area . There are lots of pieces donated by early and mid-20th century businesses that illustrate the differences in running an establishment such as a bank or car dealership in a simpler time . Plus it includes lots of school memorabilia and photos as well .
Dormont Historical Society Museum Dormont Municipal Center 1444 Hillsdale Avenue , Dormont 412.561.8900 , x400 , facebook . com / DormontHistory
A true local museum , conveniently located on the ground floor of the municipal center , it includes two full rooms of photos , documents , audio and visual recordings , and memorabilia focused on the history of Dormont , incorporated in 1909 . Fans of the Hollywood Theater will enjoy items rescued from the venue before restoration .
Duncan & Miller Glass Museum 100 Ridge Avenue , Washington 724.225.9950 , duncan-miller . org
This museum is new but has already received a “ Georgie ” ( Washington County Historical Society Hall of Fame ) award in 2019 . A beautiful collection of glass made between 1867 and 1955 by Geo Duncan & Sons and Duncan & Miller Glass companies is displayed . The museum is open April through December .
The Enoch Wright House & Museum of Western Expansion 815 Venetia Road , Peters Township 724.348.9705 , peterscreekhistoricalsociety . org
The Enoch Wright House is listed on the national , state and county registers of historical houses . Built in 1815 , it is made of bricks that were formed and fired on-site , and it has 12 fireplaces , some of which were closed but are being reopened . There is a room with a coal mining display , a Colonial Room , and a Native American Room . There are also unusual architectural features that may be suggestive of a role in the Underground Railroad , given the Wrights ’ strong stand against slavery . The house is open for special events or may be toured by appointment .
Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village 401 Meadowcroft Road , Avella 724.587.3412 , heinzhistorycenter . org / meadowcroft
Meadowcroft Rockshelter is a site of human habitation from 19,000 years ago , making it the oldest in North America ! In addition to the archaeological dig site , there is a reconstructed Monongahela Village of the 1570s , a 1770s trading post , and a 19th century village . Meadowcroft opens the first weekend in May every year .
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