Stay up-to-date on what's happening at the Heinz History Center and our family of museums with the Making History newsletter!
HOLIDAY 2023
This holiday season, relive memories and make new ones with your family at the Smithsonian’s home in Pittsburgh! The Heinz History Center’s holly jolly exhibition, A Very Merry Pittsburgh , returns on Nov. 18 and features a special section with family keepsakes, artifacts, film, and imagery that explores how Western Pennsylvanians have traditionally celebrated major winter holidays, including Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, and more. Feel the nostalgia of Christmastime in Downtown Pittsburgh with decorations and familiar objects from popular department stores like Kaufmann’s, Horne’s, and Gimbels, including two recreated holiday window displays. Explore memorable artifacts from Kaufmann’s Santaland, including Santa’s original chair, giant Mr. and Mrs. Claus ornaments, and the mailbox where thousands of Pittsburgh children mailed their Christmas wish lists to the North Pole. Kids of all ages will enjoy exploring historic holiday toys from the past 100+ years, then playing with retro toys like Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots, Mr. Potato Head, and more in the exhibit’s hands-on play area.
dates at the History Center! Santa Claus himself will be in the building to pose for pictures from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. beginning on Nov. 18 (check page 8 for dates and details). Wrap up your holiday shopping either in-person or online with the perfect Pittsburgh-proud present at the History Center Museum Shop featuring one-of-a-kind Heinz swag, pickle products, "Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood" gear, award-winning books, and so much more (see page 6 for our top picks in this year’s Holiday Gift Guide).
A Very Merry Pittsburgh will be on view through Dec. 31, 2023.
This holiday season, all kids aged 17 and under receive FREE admission to the Heinz History Center and Fort Pitt Museum.
Attention Members! Enjoy a special preview of A Very Merry Pittsburgh with holiday treats, special prizes, and a visit from Santa Claus himself!
Thanks to support from:
Don’t miss your chance to snap a photo with Old Saint Nick on select
History Center members are invited to sip hot chocolate and enjoy the museum’s A Very Merry Pittsburgh exhibition at an exclusive Holiday Open House on Saturday, Dec. 16 , from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Take your family photo with Santa Claus and chat with museum curators at this festive gathering.
EXHIBITS
Diya lamps used during Diwali, c. 2018. Gift of Krishna Sharma.
Artifact Spotlight: Diwali Diya Lamps
These small earthenware lamps are central to Diwali, the religious Hindu festival of light. The light of the lamp drives away darkness and symbolizes knowledge. Usually filled with oil or ghee (a kind of clarified butter made from bovine milk and used in Indian cooking, medicine, and religious rituals), the lamps have a cotton wick. The lamps light the home, burning away darkness and ignorance, as the flame reaches towards higher spiritual knowledge. See these diya lamps in-person and learn more about a host of holiday traditions in the A Very Merry Pittsburgh exhibition at the History Center, on view through Dec. 31.
Visitors explore the Wars of Empire and Liberty exhibit.
The Revolutionary Art of Don Troiani
The History Center has partnered with the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia to showcase a new exhibition, Wars of Empire and Liberty , featuring the revolutionary art of Don Troiani. Located in the museum’s fifth floor Barensfeld Gallery, the exhibit includes more than 25 original works of art along with rare objects from private collections. Paired with the History Center’s long-term Clash of Empires exhibition, Wars of Empire and Liberty provides a fresh look at two epic conflicts—the French & Indian War and the Revolutionary War—that dramatically reshaped global empires and ultimately gave rise to a new nation. The experience begins with Clash of Empires , examining the origins and aftermath of the Seven Years’ War from the perspectives of each of the participants: British, French, and American Indian.
Pennsylvania railroad welder, courtesy of the Library of Congress.
Coming Soon: Major Exhibit on History- Making Women There is no shortage of history-making women with Western Pa. connections, but their stories have often been overlooked in the history books and overshadowed by the achievements of Pittsburgh's well-known men of industry. This spring, the History Center will flip the script and take an unprecedented deep dive into lives and achievements of these fierce and unflappable women inside a major new exhibition opening on March 23, 2024. Take an interactive, thematic journey through women’s history from the early 1800s to modern day, learning along the way how women’s fortitude and resolve helped to pave the way for future generations. The exhibition will feature rare artifacts from inspiring women, such as legendary journalist Nellie Bly, Pittsburghers who played in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL), civil rights activist Daisy Lampkin, groundbreaking filmmaker Lois Weber, and more.
"George Washinton at the Battle of Princeton, 1777." Painted by Don Troiani, Southbury, Connecticut, 2009, Oil on Canvas, Private Collection. Photo courtesy of Don Troiani. The story continues with a focus on liberty and the struggle for American independence, featuring the stunning paintings of nationally renowned historical artist Don Troiani. Troiani’s paintings chronicle a diverse cast of characters swept up by the Revolution, including Margaret Corbin, part of the doomed American garrison at Fort Washington, who helped keep two cannons firing after her husband was killed. The Wars of Empire and Liberty exhibition is on view through August 2024 and part of the History Center’s America 101 history and civics initiative.
Stay tuned to heinzhistorycenter.org for more details.
2 | The Newsletter of the Senator John Heinz History Center
heinzhistorycenter.org | 412-454-6000
LEARNING
Students to Showcase Knowledge and Creativity on National History Day
Teachers Tour the History Center
A group of educators visit the History Center during the annual Teacher’s Open House.
The History Center recently hosted an open house attended by teachers from throughout the region to kick off the 2023-24 school year. Guests interacted with museum educators and curators, toured through six floors of exhibitions, and learned more about school programs, curriculum, and resources available to them. Are you a teacher? Do you know a friend or family member who is? Stay up-to-date on the latest happenings by signing up for the History Center’s Educator eNewsletter. Learn about teacher professional development opportunities, upcoming exhibitions and events, and special field trip offerings for students.
Students present their projects at National History Day 2023.
Last March, over 250 middle and high school students filled the History Center to participate in the National History Day competition which explored the theme of “Frontiers in History: People, Places, Ideas.” Students from Allegheny, Washington, Greene, Fayette, Westmoreland, and Somerset counties presented their work to 80 volunteer judges. Join us on March 23-24 for the 2024 National History Day Competition, where students will present their projects on the theme, “Turning Points in History.” Students and teachers can register for National History Day beginning at 8 a.m. on Jan. 8, 2024. For more information, please visit heinzhistorycenter.org/learn .
Scan the QR Code to join the educator list!
Archival Spotlight: The October 27 Archive
The Rauh Jewish History Program & Archives has launched a groundbreaking website to share archival materials and objects collected following the antisemitic attack against three congregations at Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life synagogue on Oct. 27, 2018. This ever-growing digital repository documents local and global responses to the deadliest antisemitic incident in American history including the incredible outpouring of support for Pittsburgh's Jewish community from people around Western Pa. and the world. “Each object included in the October 27 Archive represents a single response to the Oct. 27 attack. By bringing all these objects together in one place, we honor the many incredible responses to that terrible day. As this website grows in the years to come, we hope it will help people heal, connect, inspire, educate, and work together to improve the world,” said Eric Lidji, director of the Rauh Jewish History Program & Archives. Viewed together, as a collection, these thousands of objects reveal the scale of pain created on that day, as well as the vast communal effort to heal and to move forward. Visit the website at october27archive.org .
Ten Commandments and World Faiths Hike patch, Nov. 29, 2019. The October 27 Archive website, Rauh Jewish History Program & Archives.
3 Holiday 2023 |
Discover the Region’s American Indian History
Over the past decade, Fort Pitt Museum and Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village staff members have established important relationships with American Indian tribal communities who once called Western Pa. home. Many of the federally recognized tribes who once dwelled in our region, including the Shawnee, Seneca, Seneca-Cayuga, and Delaware, no longer reside here. Museum staff have traveled as far as Oklahoma to meet with tribal leaders and expand their knowledge of the history and culture of these communities. The Fort Pitt Museum shares the stories of American Indian history year- round through public programs, educational outreach, and exhibitions. This past September, Fort Pitt partnered with Meadowcroft for American Indian Heritage Weekend, where Native American tribal members showcased their traditions and culture through live demonstrations while interacting with visitors. In summer 2024, the Fort Pitt Museum will open a major exhibition that will take a comprehensive look at the American Indian tribes from Western Pa. and how their presence changed the course of history in the region. The exhibition is supported by the Laurel Foundation .
Tribal members demonstrate traditional cooking techniques during American Indian Heritage Weekend.
Honoring the Life & Legacy of Franco Harris
Nearly one year after the death of legendary Pittsburgh Steelers running back Franco Harris, the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum continues to preserve his legacy. Through dozens of rare and never-been-seen objects and archival materials, the Super Steelers exhibition examines the life and career of Harris, the New Jersey native and Penn State star who captivated Pittsburgh with his hard-running style and intensity during his rookie season in 1972. The exhibit features artifacts that symbolize his talent, skill, sportsmanship, and perseverance on and off the field, including Harris’ four Super Bowl rings and Pro Football Hall of Fame ring. Other rare artifacts include Harris’ football jersey from Rancocas Valley High School (N.J.), his own “Franco’s Italian Army” helmet, NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Award, and Pro Football Hall of Fame jacket.
The Franco Harris installation is on view now in the Sports Museum.
Franco Harris wearing his Super Bowl IX ring, 2022. Courtesy of Pittsburgh Steelers, photograph by Karl Roser.
Rockin’ the Past, Present, and Future at Meadowcroft
This past June, Dr. James M. Adovasio led an exclusive Insider Tour of the renowned Meadowcroft Rockshelter to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the site’s first archaeological excavation. During the tour, visitors had the opportunity to view the National Historic Landmark with Dr. Adovasio, who led the first excavation of the site with his University of Pittsburgh field team in 1973. A half-century later, archaeological work at Meadowcroft continues. Recently, Dr. Adovasio led the most extensive excavation completed at the site during the last 30 years, focusing on an area heavily used during the early Woodland period (about 1000 BC). Looking ahead to the future, Meadowcroft is preparing for a significant expansion, including a new visitor center and facilities to better accommodate visitors who travel to the site from around the globe. Part of the Meadowcroft expansion includes a “prehistoric trail” where extinct species like mastodons and the American lion that once roamed the region will be seen as life-sized models in their natural environment.
Dr. Adovasio leads an Insider Tour of the Meadowcroft Rockshelter.
4 | The Newsletter of the Senator John Heinz History Center
heinzhistorycenter.org | 412-454-6000
History Center Sweatshirt $39.95
Stoneware Mugs Starting at $21.95
Heinz Pet Accessories Starting at $12.95
Glass Holiday Ornaments $19.95
Gift Membership Save 20% Online Through Dec. 31
Heinz Baseball Cap $19.95
Tote Bag $16.95
Heinz Apparel Collection Starting at $11.95
Welcome Doormat $29.95
Assorted Pennants Starting at $24.95
5 Holiday 2023 |
HAPPENINGS
History Uncorked Returns March 8, 2024!
Visitors explore the new Sport and the Body exhibition in the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum.
3 for Free: History Center Sets Attendance Record in August The Heinz History Center recently achieved national acclaim after being named the #2 History Museum in America by USA Today. This prestigious recognition inspired the Allegheny Regional Asset District (RAD) to develop the “3 for Free in August” initiative, allowing all visitors to visit free of charge during the month of August at the History Center, the Andy Warhol Museum, and the Children’s Museum – both fellow USA Today honorees. As a result, the History Center attracted nearly 65,000 visitors during the month of August – more visitors than our previous monthly attendance record, set in December 2010 during the blockbuster Vatican Splendors exhibition. With so many visitors using the UPMC SmartSteps instead of crowded elevators, the History Center distributed more than 14,000 Heinz pickle pins throughout the month to those who completed their punch cards on each floor! The initiative drew many young families and new visitors to the museum, including many who explored the Smithsonian’s The Negro Motorist Green Book exhibition during its final two weeks. If you missed the Green Book exhibition, don’t worry! Visit heinzhistorycenter.org to view a special virtual exhibit tour.
History Uncorked partygoers at the annual event.
Save the date, Pittsburgh’s #1 party is slated for March 8, 2024! 2023 Uncorked chairs Cody Baker and Chancelor Humphrey will return to co-host the annual 21+ night after leading efforts for last year's sold out "History Uncorked: A Beautiful Night in the Neighborhood.” Stay tuned for information on the 2024 theme, food and drink vendors, party plans, and more on our website at heinzhistorycenter.org/events .
History Uncorked committee co-chairs Chancelor Humphrey and Cody Baker.
Your Special Day Will Go Down in History
SENATOR JOHN HEINZ HISTORY CENTER** BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Howard W. Hanna, III, Chair, Board of Trustees Christine Bryant, Vice Chair, Board of Trustees Beverlynn Elliott, Vice Chair, Board of Trustees Scott Lammie, Treasurer, Board of Trustees Laurence Glasco, PhD, Secretary, Board of Trustees Diane P. Holder, Immediate Past Chair, Board of Trustees Andrew E. Masich, President & CEO, Senator John Heinz History Center
Kevin Acklin Arthur L. Baldwin David E. Barensfeld Latasha Wilson Batch Charles W. Bitzer
Art Rooney II Izzy Rudolph Joy Starzl Joe Trotter Jr., PhD
Brian Trudgen Mark Twerdok Nish Vartanian The Honorable Kim Ward Dennis A. Watson Anne Zacharias Emeritus & Honorary† Robert Cindrich Sigo Falk The Honorable D. Michael Fisher Floyd “Chip” Ganassi, Jr. Teresa Heinz† Torrence Hunt Maxwell King Robert B. Knutson† The Honorable Frank J. Lucchino Martin G. McGuinn Sandy Mellon Bruce Wiegand
Cynthia Bognar Eric Boughner Charles R. "Chip" Burke, Jr. Verna Corey, ScD The Honorable Jay Costa, Jr. Judith Davenport Jeffrey Davies Joseph Dougherty The Honorable Rich Fitzgerald†† Daniel Fitzpatrick The Honorable Ed Gainey†† Stan Geier James M. Gockley Ken Gormley
Donald J. Heberle Gerardo Interiano William M. Lambert Diane Landers, PhD Judy Linaburg
The fifth floor Mueller Center sparkles ahead of a recent wedding. Photo courtesy of Adam Michaels Photography.
Host your wedding at the History Center to make your big day truly historic! Whether you envision a grand gala or an intimate elopement, the History Center will deliver the perfect experience. Our talented team of event planners will take care of every detail, including coordinating delicious food and drink service from Common Plea Catering. Learn more by visiting heinzhistorycenter.org/rentals .
Catherine Loevner Michael Mascaro Albert Neupaver The Honorable Donna Oberlander Stefani Pashman Robert N. Peirce, Jr., Esq.
*Historical Society of Western Pennsylvania †† ex officio
Robert P. Randall Matthew Rhenish Brian Roman
6 | The Newsletter of the Senator John Heinz History Center
heinzhistorycenter.org | 412-454-6000
UPCOMING EVENTS
Saturdays With Santa Select Dates | 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. | Heinz History Center
Visit Santa at the History Center on select dates this holiday season, from Nov. 18 through Dec. 23. Stop by the A Very Merry Pittsburgh exhibition for a photo with Old Saint Nick sitting in an exact replica of the chair from Kaufmann’s Santaland, then explore artifacts that highlight the region’s holiday traditions.
Santa visits in December are supported by:
Batch-A-Toys Drive Saturday, Dec. 9 | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Heinz History Center
Join former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Charlie Batch at the History Center as we collect toys for families in need this holiday season in support of the Best of the Batch Foundation’s annual Batch-A- Toys drive. Drop off new and unwrapped toys outside of the museum and stop inside to snap a photo with Santa and see the History Center’s A Very Merry Pittsburgh exhibition.
Jewish Genealogical Resources in France Sunday, Dec. 10 | 1 p.m to 3 p.m. | Virtual Program Join the Rauh Jewish History Program & Archives and the Jewish Genealogy Society of Pittsburgh to learn more about the waves of French-Jewish immigrants who came to North America. The presentation will discuss some of the reasons behind emigration and share insights on how participants can learn more about French-Jewish relatives.
NFL PLAY 60 Training Camp Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024 |10 a.m. to 2 p.m. | Heinz History Center
The Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum invites the whole family to get up and get active at the ninth annual NFL PLAY 60 Training Camp, sponsored by DICK’S Sporting Goods . Enjoy five floors of fun and fitness, including a Combine that will test your speed in the 40-yard dash and assess your passing accuracy; a Sports Museum scavenger hunt where kids can complete activities for a chance to win prizes; and the ever-popular touchdown celebration contest. As part of the event, admission to the museum is FREE for kids aged 17 and under.
Courtesy of:
To register or to find up-to-date information about upcoming programs, please visit heinzhistorycenter.org/events.
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Your continued membership and support helps bring history to life for thousands of visitors each year. Thank you for helping us make history every day.
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7 Holiday 2023 |
Smithsonian A liate
Senator John Heinz History Center 1212 Smallman Street Pittsburgh, PA 15222
In this issue… • A Very Merry Pittsburgh Exhibit Opens Nov. 18 • Exhibit Preview: Women’s History in Western Pa. • American Indian Programming at Fort Pitt • Holiday Gift Guide: ‘Tis the Season to Shop Local 412-454-6000 | heinzhistorycenter.org
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Did You Know? Nearly 40 years ago, Eat’n Park’s Jim Broadhurst envisioned a commercial that shared a “video Christmas card to Pittsburgh,” something that would be meaningful for years to come. After several false starts, Craig Otto and Cathy Bowen at the Ketchum advertising firm came up with the idea of a small star trying to climb to the top of a tree. The commercial proved so popular that it has aired every Christmas season since 1982. Watch the classic commercial, see the original sketch, and learn more about how Western Pennsylvanians celebrate major winter holidays in the History Center’s holly jolly exhibition, A Very Merry Pittsburgh !
Original concept art for Eat'n Park holiday commercial, 1982. Courtesy of Eat'n Park.
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