The Rich History of Homestead, Pennsylvania
Homestead, a small borough tucked away in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, near the city of Pittsburgh, is a treasure trove of rich history, cultural diversity, and industrial development. It’s a place that has witnessed the ebb and flow of the country’s industrial revolution, and has been shaped and reshaped by the dynamism of its inhabitants and the ever-changing landscape of American industry.
A Glimpse into the Past
Homestead was not always the bustling hub of activity it is today. In the early days, the town was a tranquil expanse of rolling farmlands, where the first settlers set up their homes and cultivated their crops. The pastoral tranquility of the community was disrupted in 1879, when the Phipps Company, a subsidiary of Carnegie Phipps Company, established a glass works factory, marking the onset of Homestead’s industrial transformation.
The Rise of Industry
The establishment of the glass works factory paved the way for the development of other industries in Homestead. Phipps Company soon took over a local steel mill, and the borough began to flourish. With the advent of the 20th century, Homestead became home to one of the most important plants of the Carnegie Steel Company. Homestead’s prime location along the Monongahela River provided easy access to copious coal and ore deposits, as well as a convenient shipping route for the finished products.
The Homestead Strike of 1892
The exponential growth of the Carnegie mills and the relentless pursuit of increased output and profits led to the infamous Homestead Strike of 1892. It was a turning point in labor history, marked by one of the most violent clashes between workers and private security officials. The impact of the strike was felt for decades to come, and it has been a subject of study and discussion for over a century.
Homestead – A Historical Landmark
The significance of the Homestead Strike in the industrial revolution and labor movements has earned the town a place on the National Register of Historic Places. Most of the town’s downtown buildings, which bear witness to its historical past, are listed on the register.
The Immigrant Influence
The industrial boom in Homestead attracted a surge of immigrant workers, particularly from Western Europe. By the early 1900s, the borough was home to over 12,000 residents from diverse countries and cultures. The influx of immigrants contributed to Homestead’s cultural diversity and fueled its growth.
The Homestead Works
The Homestead Steel Works, one of the largest steel plants in the world, played a significant role in the town’s development. The plant extended into the neighboring towns of Munhall and West Homestead. By the 1920s, the area had a population of over 20,000 people. Homestead Borough became the focal point for the Steel Valley, with its Eighth Avenue and surrounding blocks becoming a hub for shopping, dining, socializing, and community events.
The Aftermath of the Industrial Decline
The post-World War II era marked a period of decline for the mills in Homestead. The closure of the mills hit the community hard, leading many to believe that the town had lost its lifeblood. However, the resilient spirit of Homestead’s residents proved otherwise. The heart of Homestead continued to beat strong, remaining a home for hard-working people who love their community.
The Waterfront Shopping Plaza
The Waterfront shopping plaza, built on the site of the old steel mill along the Mon River, has transformed the area into a bustling retail district. The plaza attracts visitors from all over the region, contributing to the borough’s economic growth.
The Great Allegheny Passage Bike Trail
The Great Allegheny Passage Bike Trail, which runs parallel to the river, offers miles of green space for walkers, runners, and bikers to enjoy. The trail is one of the many recreational facilities that Homestead offers its residents and visitors.
The Cultural Boom
In recent years, Homestead has seen a cultural boom. More businesses are setting up shop in the borough, taking advantage of its historic charm. Old industrial buildings are being transformed into beautiful lofts, and artists are finding inspiring spaces to create their masterpieces.
The Community Spirit
Despite its industrial past, Homestead retains a friendly, close-knit community spirit. Children play in the parks, residents frequent local restaurants, and people greet each other warmly on the streets. It’s a town where community and camaraderie are woven into the fabric of daily life.
The Future of Homestead
Homestead is a town that looks to the future with optimism. With its rich history, diverse culture, and thriving industries, Homestead is a place that embraces change while cherishing its roots. So, if you haven’t visited Homestead in a while, it’s time to rediscover its charm. Experience its past, appreciate its present, and look forward to its future. After all, Homestead isn’t just a place on the map – it’s a living testament to the resilience and spirit of its people.
I was fortunate to have worked at the BF GOODRICH store at 208 E 8th Ave from 1957 to 1960. The lengty steel strike resulting in a recession caused BFG to close it’s doors. I was me heartbroken. I met very good folks from Homestead and surrounding area. We serviced the police vehicles as well. In that capacity I met most if not all the policemen and the Chairman of the board,Pete Scuffle. I was from Monroeville. After that employ at age 21 I joined the Navy retiring in Seabrook, Texas. Think of Homestead and the good folks I met there. Hello all ya’ll Homesteaders and surrounding communities.
I was from Wesr Homestead but went to the First Baptist Church in Homestead, was married there’, got Vanilla Coke at Moxleys, chipped ham and ice cream sundaes at Isalys, worked at Wohlfarths Bakery& Newberrys 5&10! Took the streetcar up the hill. Mobbed away to NY but visited my Mom. Lots of fond memories. Rememember the dark orange smoke from the steel mills. Happy now it’s rejuvenated!!!
How do you not put Bill Campbell at the top of the list for famous people from Homestead? He’s a legend in Silicon Valley and a hero to the Steel Valley. Look him up. Apple wouldn’t be Apple without him for one.
What makes Homestead special to me is knowing about the Homestead Grays and one special player: Josh Gibson.
The Pittsburgh area had two Negro League teams: The Grays and the Crawfords named for Crawford Street in the Hill District.
The Homestead Grays club is, perhaps, black baseball’s most storied franchise. Formed in 1912 by Cumberland Posey, the Grays would be in continuous operation for 38 seasons. With the near collapse of the Crawfords,
Josh Gibson returned to the Grays in 1937 and combined with slugger Buck Leonard to power the Grays to nine consecutive Negro National League championships and three Negro World Series titles.
No doubt about it, Homestead was the greatest. Sounds like it still is.
Kenneth C Aiken, Senior Chief, USN, Retired, Seabrook, Texas. All ya’ll keep in touch.
Kenaiken@sbcglobal.net