History for All
Building the Next Chapter of Pittsburgh’s Story
The Heinz History Center brings Pittsburgh’s past to life, connecting the communities we serve to the people, places, and ideas that have shaped Western Pennsylvania and the world.
As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, the stories that unite us matter more than ever. They help us understand who we are today and imagine who we want to become.
Now, we’re meeting the needs of our audiences and building what comes next, expanding the History Center so more people can see themselves reflected in the stories that define our region. Through this expansion, we are doubling down on our commitment as a premier regional asset, creating a space where more people can see themselves reflected in the stories that define our region.
What We’ll Do: The Vision
The History for All capital campaign will transform how people experience history at the Smithsonian’s home in Pittsburgh. This $80 million initiative, our most ambitious undertaking to date, is a bold investment in the future of the History Center and the community it serves.
From major new exhibitions to expanded programming, a campus expansion will drive economic growth and enhance the visitor experience while removing barriers for our community, ensuring the History Center remains a place for everyone.
To make this possible, we are investing in the infrastructure needed to support this growth, which includes new gallery spaces, cutting-edge classrooms, premier event spaces, and more.
Expansion Highlights
A New History Center
A 92,000-square-foot expansion along Penn Avenue will create a modern gateway to the city and a unified, world-class history campus in the Strip District. Designed to support school groups, public programs, and community events, the expansion will feature new galleries, a state-of-the-art theater, classrooms, event spaces, and more.
Transformative New Exhibitions
Expanded galleries will showcase our iconic collections, from the Italian American Program and the Rauh Jewish Archives to the Franco Harris Sports Museum, while deepening our commitment to sharing the stories of our region’s communities. They will also bring beloved stories to life, including a major exhibition on the life and legacy of the world’s favorite neighbor, Fred Rogers.
Museum of African American History
Telling the full story of our region means honoring the voices and experiences that have too often been overlooked. Building on the success of our nationally recognized African American Program, the project will establish a new Museum of African American History that will become one of the most significant historical repositories of Black history in the country.
History and Civics Education
New cutting-edge smart classrooms, learning labs, and recording studios will make history more relevant and meaningful to students of all ages. As a national leader in civics education, we'll utilize these new resources to inspire young citizens to learn more about American history and write the next chapter of our democracy.
Access for All
We’re creating a place where history is more easily shared and appreciated. By removing barriers to access, like offering free admission and field trips for kids through the Kamin “Free for Kids” Initiative, young people will have more opportunities to understand the past so they can make informed decisions in the present and plan for the future.
Invest in Our Future
With your support, we can tell more authentic stories, share more human experiences, and make the past ever-more present in the communities we serve. We’ve raised 70% of our $80 million goal, but we need your help to bridge the gap!
Shape the next chapter of our region’s story. Your contribution provides the vital momentum needed to bring this vision to life. Whether you choose to give securely online, by cash, or by check, your support secures our shared heritage.
Make your personal history an inseparable part of the Smithsonian’s home in Pittsburgh. Commemorative gifts offer a rare opportunity to honor a loved one or mark your family’s legacy within the very walls of the History Center.
Many organizations will double or even triple the reach of your contribution through corporate matching programs. We encourage you to consult your HR department to maximize the power of your investment in the History Center.
Ensure your story is told for generations to come. By including the History Center in your estate plans—through bequests, charitable trusts, or other planned giving vehicles—you create a permanent bridge between the past and the future. These investments offer significant tax advantages while establishing a profound, enduring legacy.
To discuss how you can play a pivotal role in the History For All campaign, please contact Tonia Rose, Executive Vice President, at [email protected] or 412-454-6371.
Thank you to our project partners:
