Carnegie, PA
Carnegie’s history dates back to the late 19th century, when it was established on March 1, 1894. The town is named in honor of Andrew Carnegie, the renowned industrialist and philanthropist, who gifted the town with one of his iconic libraries.
Carnegie’s history is also marked by its industrial past. The town was once home to bustling steel mills, including Superior Steel & Union Electric Steel, that provided employment for many residents. The borough also boasted of a well-connected rail yard that linked several railroads in the early 20th century, establishing Carnegie as a significant hub in the region.
The borough has seen its share of challenges, including economic downturns due to the closure of major steel mills in the 1970s and significant damages caused by flooding in 2004. However, the indomitable spirit of the community has always shone through, helping Carnegie bounce back and continue to thrive.
Located within Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Carnegie lies approximately 5 miles southwest of Pittsburgh. The borough is bisected by Chartiers Creek and its tributary, Campbells Run.
Carnegie covers a total land area of 1.6 square miles and stands at an average elevation of 833 ft above sea level. The borough is surrounded by Rosslyn Farms to the north, Scott Township to the east, south, and southwest, Collier Township to the west, and Robinson Township to the northwest.
Carnegie’s diverse population is one of its significant assets. As per the 2020 census, the borough was home to approximately 8,134 residents. Over the years, the population has seen fluctuations, with a steady decline from the 1900s to the 2000s, followed by a slight increase in 2020.
The racial composition of the borough is primarily White, with African American, Asian, Native American, Pacific Islander, and other races making up the rest. The borough also boasts a multicultural mix, with a small percentage of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino.
Retail and Business in Carnegie
Carnegie is a vibrant cultural hub with an array of unique stores, restaurants, and recreational spaces. The borough’s park features a dog park, playground, tennis courts, a hockey rink, basketball courts, baseball fields, walking trails, and a skate park, providing a plethora of outdoor activities for residents and visitors alike.
The Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall is a significant cultural landmark, housing the Grand Army of the Republic Cpt. Thomas Espy Post and hosting various theater productions. Carnegie also hosts the annual Pittsburgh New Works Festival, further cementing its place as a cultural hotspot.
The borough’s religious diversity is also noteworthy, with the presence of Orthodox Churches, Lutheran churches, a Ukrainian Catholic church, a Methodist church, an Episcopal church, a Polish Catholic church, a Roman Catholic Church, a synagogue, and an Islamic Center.
Political Landscape
Carnegie’s political landscape reflects its diverse population. The borough’s electorate has shown varying preferences in the presidential elections, with votes split between Republican, Democratic, and Third Party candidates. The borough’s political scene continues to be dynamic and participatory, reflecting the democratic values of its residents.
Education in Carnegie
The Carlynton School District serves the students of Carnegie. The borough also houses an elementary school, providing quality education to its younger residents.
Famous People From Carnegie
Carnegie has been the birthplace and home to several notable personalities over the years. This includes athletes such as Mike Ditka, a Pro Football Hall of Fame member, and Honus Wagner, a Baseball Hall of Fame member. The borough has also been home to significant political figures like James H. Duff, a former governor of Pennsylvania and U.S. Senate member, and artists such as James Michael Newell, a W.P.A. muralist.
Carnegie, Pennsylvania is far more than just a borough; it’s a vibrant community, a historical artifact, and a cultural hub. With its rich history, diverse population, thriving cultural scene, and notable personalities, Carnegie serves as a microcosm of the American experience. Whether you’re a resident, a visitor, or someone interested in the rich tapestry of American towns, there’s no denying that Carnegie, Pennsylvania has a unique story to tell.
