Commemorative Gifts
The Heinz History Center brings our past to life, connecting the people, places, and ideas that have shaped Western Pennsylvania. These stories unite us, help us understand the present, and inspire the future we are building together.
Now, we are expanding not only our walls, but our reach, creating new ways for more people to see themselves reflected in our shared history.
With a commemorative gift, you can be part of our story, ensuring your legacy is reflected in the history we preserve and the future we’re building at the Smithsonian’s home in Pittsburgh.
Secure Your Place in Pittsburgh’s Story
Make your personal history an inseparable part of ours. These commemorative opportunities support the History Center’s expansion while creating a lasting tribute and honoring your family’s legacy within the new, expanded space.
The Theatre at the Center: Name a Seat
The stories of our region deserve a stage. As we prepare to host thought-provoking speakers, lectures, and community conversations, we invite you to name a seat in our premiere theatre. This unique opportunity ensures future generations have a front-row seat to the stories that will define our region for years to come.
Restricted gift for expansion.
The Terrace Gardens: Planter Box Tributes
Our expansion will soon bloom with the addition of the History Center Terrace. A limited number of dedicated terrace planter boxes will offer a meaningful way to contribute to this outdoor space. These living tributes will frame Pittsburgh’s cultural corridor and skyline, creating a place for reflection and a lasting symbol of what we can grow together.
Restricted gift for expansion.
A Legacy in the Making: Great Hall and Beyond
Beyond our new expansion, you can continue to mark milestones through our established commemorative programs.
Commemorative Tiles
Pay tribute to a loved one or commemorate a milestone with a 6″x12″ tile in the History Center’s iconic Great Hall. Made of aluminum or stainless steel, each engraved tile will join the ranks of history. Visitors who purchase tiles are also invited to write a 250-word tribute on the History Center’s website.
If you have a commemorative tile already and would like to find its location, please use our commemorative tile database for your search.
Tiles are available for contributions of $500 (steel) or $800 (aluminum).
Time Capsules
Preserve your own piece of history with a personalized time capsule. Work with History Center professionals to preserve photographs, medals, and other special mementos for future generations. Each time capsule is secured inside a uniquely designed wall in the museum’s Smithsonian Wing.
Time capsules are available for contributions of $1,250 (6 × 12 in. aluminum), $1,879 (12 × 12 in. brass), and $4,000 (12 × 12 in. stainless steel). The $5,000 level also includes a 5-year Friends & Family membership.
To learn more about commemorative gifts, please contact us at [email protected].