We all know Pittsburgh has a rich history. Here is the third in a series of memorable Pittsburgh moments—the 1960s and ’70s.  We’ll take you through every decade through present day over the next few weeks.

Of course, most all of us are familiar with the great Steeler’s teams of the 70s –  look for a separate post on that soon.   We’ve concentrated more on historic moments or achievements here in Pittsburgh affecting the region as a whole…

1961

•  The Civic Arena opens. – The Civic Arena opened in 1961 for use by the Civic Light Opera. It was conceived by then Kaufmann’s department store owner Edgar J. Kaufmann.

1968

• Rioting post MLK Assassination – Like many cities around the country, Pittsburgh experienced riots after the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. in April.

1970

• Renaissance I Building Projects completed. – The U.S. Steel Building and Three Rivers Stadium are finished.

1972

• The Immaculate Reception – Franco Harris scooped up a loose football and ran it in for a game winning Steelers touchdown.

1973

• Demand for steel lessened. – Due to the 1973 oil crisis and use of other materials, demand for steel began to seriously lack.

1974

• Fountain completed. – The addition of the fountain at the tip of the Golden Triangle and Point State Park was finished.

1976

• Allegheny Foundation gift – With the help of a gift from the Allegheny Foundation, Landmarks adapted five Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad buildings for new uses. They added a hotel, dock for the Gateway Clipper and parking. Station Square was born, bringing over 3.5 million visitors each year.

The 1970’s led the way for the eventual decline of the steel industry in America… and thus in Pittsburgh, through the next decade or so.   To catch up on our memorable moments series, you can find these historic facts about Pittsburgh in the 1940s and Pittsburgh in the 1950s.   You can also start at the beginning of Pittsburgh right here.   Try this page for the individual history of Pittsburgh neighborhoods.