Making History Blog
David McCullough (1933-2022)
When he was young, David McCullough couldn’t decide if he would be a painter, an actor, an architect, or a writer. Eventually, he did it all. And he did it with a style and passion that engaged and inspired generations of Americans.
Sisters in Song: Musical Sister Acts in Pittsburgh’s History
In the 1940s, three sisters, Barbara, Elaine, and Shirley, sang their way through programs on KDKA radio and toured the country selling war bonds. Known as the Kinder Sisters, these women were one of many sister musical acts that have captivated audiences throughout Pittsburgh’s history. These sister groups were not only hugely popular, they also highlighted the connective power music wields in families and communities.
Pittsburgh’s John Kane: Coming to America
When my stepfather sent for me, I didn’t want to go to America. I was doing well in my own country and was becoming more and more in love with Scotland all the time. But Mother thought I ought to go.… And accordingly, I went.
Title IX at 50
“Title IX has done more for women than anything since the 19th Amendment…I thought from the very beginning the most valuable results of Title IX would come through academic…
Pittsburgh’s John Kane Q&A: Meet Guest Curator Louise Lippincott
When the History Center decided to pursue an exhibition on the life and work of Pittsburgh painter John Kane – Louise Lippincott’s name kept coming up in conversation. A historian…
Samuel A. Musgrave: Industrial Photographer for Hire
Samuel Musgrave portrait, 1952 Working behind the scenes for many of Pittsburgh’s leading companies, Samuel A. Musgrave captured an extensive visual record of Western Pennsylvania’s postwar economy. As a…
From Pickles to Planes: Women Lead Glider Production for Heinz During WWII
They came from all walks of life. Margaret Evans was an artist’s model from Greentree. Mrs. Grace Winters was a widow with three small children. Mrs. Louise Hamilton came from…
The McGinnis Sisters Special Food Stores: Remembering a Connection Between Mother and Daughters
Local businesses become part of the fabric of a community, especially those related to food and groceries. Customers sample new products, exchange recipes, and pick up ingredients needed for cherished…
The “Little” Penn Theater
Perhaps the only photo of the theater shows author Paul (age 12) with his uncle Ben Siegal in 1944. Courtesy of Carol Horowitz. by Paul Roth The principal business…
Rev. LeRoy Patrick: Advocate for Equality
After arriving in Pittsburgh in 1951, Rev. LeRoy Patrick dove headfirst into the fight to integrate the city’s public swimming pools. Though Blacks were not prevented by law from using…