First United Methodist Church celebrates 100 years in McKeesport. For 100 years, the Gothic-style building at the corner of Cornell Street and Versailles Avenue has stood as a familiar landmark in McKeesport. But the history of First United Methodist Church of McKeesport stretches back much farther than the building itself. The congregation was founded in 1841 as the Methodist Episcopal Church of McKeesport. After meeting in several temporary locations, the congregation const

The Montour Railroad once threaded our area, rumbling through the countryside, peaking in the 1930s and passing out of sight and into history in 1984. The Montour Railroad began in 1877, and was privately owned by the Imperial Coal Company, running from the mines to Coraopolis. It was a short-line railroad, which offered both freight and passenger service to 15 area stations (the passenger service ended in 1927). Most railroads of that time were short lines running just a few

Residents and friends gathered at the Chartiers Room on July 18 dressed like flapper girls and dapper gents! The event was organized by the Bridgeville Community Association. When guests arrived, they were required to give a password to enter the speakeasy’s secret door. Everyone enjoyed a dinner catered by PJ’s Deli, and danced the night away to jazz renditions by the Rick Purcell Trio! Happy Birthday, Bridgeville! PHOTOS BY NICOLE TAFE

Our area was once the home of an important Civil War general, James Adam Ekin. His exemplary service in the military, however, was forever overshadowed by his connection to President Abraham Lincoln after his death. The Ekin House in Elizabeth, PA, was originally owned by General James Ekin, grandson of Stephen Bayard, the town’s founder. Photo courtesy of Abandoned Old & Interesting Places - Western PA. Ekin was born in 1819, to a mother whose father, Colonel Stephen Bayard,

A plethora of events were held around the area as Girard celebrated the legendary, multitalented circus performer and owner, Dan Rice. The Hagen History Center opened the doors of the Yellow House and White House for tours, and World War II reenactments took place on July 31. There was also a chicken dinner at A.F. Dobler Hose & Ladder Company, a bike tour starting from Girard Alliance Church that gave riders a chance to view beautiful sunflowers along the way, and lots of ve

This local landmark has an interesting history and still provides nursing and personal care services for eligible veterans and their spouses. In the 1880s, many area residents who fought in the Civil War were aging and needed care. Still others were permanently disabled from their service. With no disability programs, Social Security or other assistance available, these men were adrift without care. The Pennsylvania Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home in Erie was a godsend for these

First Monroeville Borough Council. January 10, 1952. 2026 marks the 75th anniversary of Monroeville’s creation as a borough. But what led to the leaders of Patton Township, as the area was known at the time, to want to incorporate into a borough? Patton Township was formed in 1849 when Plum Township was divided in half, with the southern portion becoming Patton Township. Part of Patton was a little hamlet along the Northern Turnpike where Joel Monroe had his general store and

Hidden beside a popular community park, this historic burial ground preserves the stories of Revolutionary War soldiers, Whiskey Rebellion participants, and generations of residents. Many residents and visitors enjoy Lobb’s Park, which offers playground equipment, three pickleball courts and a basketball court. It’s the scene of a lot of fun and activity during the warmer months. But did you know it’s also part of a registered historic place? Lobb’s Cemetery (also known as Lo

In the heart of the community, Carnegie Municipal Park has a history that reflects the people who built it and those who continue to visit. Carnegie Municipal Park’s beautiful green space will be the scene for “Party in the Park,” a community celebration on May 30, from noon to 10 p.m. Vintage cars will make their appearance from noon to 3 p.m., and the entire park will resonate with the sounds of The Mansfield 5, The Jaggerz, and The Timothy Earl Bands. The evening will cul

The lives of our ancestors were connected to the land in a delicate dance between nature and the changing seasons. We can rekindle that connection at Round Hill Park. Very few of us are farmers these days. But those who make their living from the land have a wonderful opportunity to be outdoors, working with plants and animals. Round Hill Park is perhaps one of the most unique areas in the Allegheny County Parks system. It is an actual working farm, complete with cows, goats,

Here are some interesting February-related stories tied to Pittsburgh neighborhoods and suburbs. February 1916 – Birth of modern radio Pittsburgh is often called the birthplace of commercial radio. In February 1916, local inventor Frank Conrad made one of the first regular radio music broadcasts from his garage in Wilkinsburg, just outside the city. This work directly led to KDKA, the world’s first commercial radio station. February 9, 1967 – The Penguins are born The NHL off