Experience Kits

LOCATION: 1212 Smallman Street (Strip District), Pittsburgh, PA 15222 

HOURS: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily. The History Center is open 361 days a year and closed on New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.  

*For updated information concerning hours of operation or changes to their calendar of events or programs, please check their website and/or call before your visit. 

WEBSITE: www.heinzhistorycenter.org  

CONTACT: 412-454-6000 or info@heinzhistorycenter.org  

ADMISSION: Complimentary-up to two (2) adults and six (6) children under the age of eighteen per visit and per one lending time period (which will be approximately one week and per each library’s procedures). 

DESCRIPTION: America’s #1 History Museum. The Heinz History Center was recently voted as the #1 History Museum in America by USA Today as part of its annual Readers’ Choice Awards. The Heinz History Center has been in continuous existence since 1879, which makes it one of Pittsburgh’s oldest cultural organizations. The museum is Pennsylvania’s largest history museum and a proud affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution. The Heinz History Center also facilitates its own affiliate program, working with over two hundred historical organizations in our tri-state area. It is devoted to the history and heritage of western PA and contains six floors of long-term and changing exhibits with hands-on activities, as well as a multitude of events and programs. There is something for everyone! The museum system also includes the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum and the Detre Library and Archives. 

In addition, the Heinz History Center operates the Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village in Avella, PA, and the Fort Pitt Museum at the Point in Pittsburgh. 

As Pittsburgh’s “people museum,” the Heinz History Center preserves and interprets the history of Western Pennsylvanians through six floors of interactive exhibitions that feature iconic artifacts like the TV set from “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” and the world’s oldest jeep. The Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum is located on the second and third floors of the Heinz History Center. 

LOCATION: 401 Meadowcroft Road, Avella, PA 15312 

HOURS:

• May: Saturdays and Sundays, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 
• Memorial Day to Labor Day: Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 
• Labor Day and October: Saturdays and Sundays, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

*For updated information concerning hours of operation or changes to their calendar of events or programs, please check the website and/or call before your visit.  

WEBSITE: www.heinzhistorycenter.org/visit/meadowcroft  

CONTACT: 724-587-3412 or meadowcroftinfo@heinzhistorycenter.org 

ADMISSION: Complimentary-up to two (2) adults and six (6) children under the age of eighteen per visit and per one lending time period (which will be approximately one week and per each library’s procedures). 

DESCRIPTION: Take a day-long adventure at Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, located in Avella, Washington County, PA. Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village was created by Albert and Delvin Miller who wanted to preserve the rural history of Western Pennsylvania, while developing a place where youth groups could camp, learn about history, and investigate the natural environment. 

A variety of tours and educational experiences are offered at Meadowcroft. Visitors can:

• investigate archeology and the prehistoric people who lived in the area under a massive rock overhang 19,000 years ago; 

• travel 400 years into the past to explore a re-created 16th century Indian village; 

• explore an 18th century frontier trading post; 

• visit a 19th century rural village containing a one-room schoolhouse, an 1870s log church, and a blacksmith forge, while learning from re-enactors dressed in period costumes and from living history demonstrations. 

Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village is a National Historic Landmark. 

At Meadowcroft’s interpretive villages, you can step back in time to encounter rural life over the past 500 years. Explore a wigwam and test your aim with a spear thrower at the 16th-century Eastern Woodland Indian Village, experience an 18th-century log cabin and open-sided trading post, and watch a blacksmith forge red-hot iron or take a lesson in a one-room school house at the site’s 19th-century Historic Village. 

An affiliate of the Heinz History Center, the Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village helps visitors learn about ancient history and step back in time to experience rural life in the Washington County area from the past 500 years. 

LOCATION: 601 Commonwealth Place, Point State Park, Pittsburgh, PA, 15222 

HOURS: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily.  

The museum is closed on New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. 

*For updated information concerning hours of operation or changes to their calendar of events or programs, please check the website and/or call before your visit. 

WEBSITE: www.heinzhistorycenter.org/visit/fort-pitt  

CONTACT: 412-281-9284 or fortpittinfo@heinzhistorycenter.org  

ADMISSION: Complimentary-up to two (2) adults and six (6) children under the age of eighteen per visit and per one lending time period (which will be approximately one week and per each library’s procedures). 

DESCRIPTION: Discover the world-shaping events that occurred right here in Pittsburgh at the Fort Pitt Museum, located within Point State Park. The Fort Pitt Museum tells the story of Western Pennsylvania’s vital role during the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. It was also the birthplace of the city of Pittsburgh. It opened in 1969 in a reconstructed bastion at the forks of the Ohio River, which was an important and strategic location in American history.  

Through interactive exhibits, life-like historical figures and artifacts, visitors can discover the important role that our region played in shaping the country. Visitors can also learn about daily life of 18th century residents of the area, and they can experience sights and sounds of a frontier fort during Living History events at the museum. 

During the summer months, you can witness living history in Point State Park as the Fort Pitt Museum’s colonial reenactors demonstrate how life was lived during the 1700s. 

An affiliate of the Heinz History Center, the Fort Pitt Museum helps visitors discover the importance of Western Pennsylvania to our country’s history and also learn about frontier life of 18th century America. 

LOCATION: 1253 Bushy Run Road, Jeannette, PA 15644 

HOURS:

May through October

Wednesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

Sunday, Noon to 5:00 p.m. 

Closed Mondays and Tuesdays 

November through April

Friday and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

Sunday, Noon to 5:00 p.m. 

Closed Monday through Thursday 

*For updated information concerning hours of operation or changes to their calendar of events or programs, please check the website and/or call before you visit.  

WEBSITE: www.bushyrunbattlefield.com  

CONTACT: 724-527-5584 

ADMISSION: Complimentary-up to two (2) adults and six (6) children under the age of eighteen per visit and per one lending time period (which will be approximately one week and per each library’s procedures). 

DESCRIPTION: Pennsylvania’s only recognized Native American Battlefield. Colonel Henry Bouquet and a force of approximately 400 British soldiers left Carlisle in July to relieve the besieged Fort Pitt and end a series of unchecked attacks against frontier outposts. The opening of western Pennsylvania to settlement was the result of a decisive victory over the Native Americans at the Battle of Bushy Run, August 5th, and 6th, 1763. Highlights of the site include the interpretive exhibit, “The March to Bushy Run” at the site’s visitor center, as well as guided and self-guided tours, special events, and educational programs. 

Founded in 1950, the museum was built to house a collection of local Americana and memorabilia that give visitors a sense of the Bushy Run Battle. In addition, tours, trails, and interpretive programs add to the experience, and visitors will be able to see historical reproductions illustrating colonial and Native American culture with life-like figurines and artifacts that depict life in the 18th century. 

Several events are offered at Bushy Run Battlefield including “History Speaks” events, nature walks, “Kids’ Living Wax Museum,” interpretive programs, school tours, scout opportunities, and Astronomy Nights. There is also a Spring Tea, Market Days, a Living History Day Camp, an annual reenactment, a Halloween Event, Colonial Cocktail Hour, Children’s Christmas Party, and a Christmas Tea. 

An affiliate of the Heinz History Center, Bushy Run Battlefield shares the story of its important role in American history. 

LOCATION: 1235 3rd Avenue, Freedom, PA 15042 

HOURS: Monday-Friday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.; closed Saturday and Sunday. Please use 4th Avenue entrance. 

*For updated information concerning hours of operation or changes to their calendar of events or programs, please check the website and/or call before your visit.  

WEBSITE: www.bchrlf.org  

CONTACT: 724-775-1848 or bchrlf@bchrlf.org 

ADMISSION: Complimentary-up to two (2) adults and six (6) children under the age of eighteen per visit and per one lending time period (which will be approximately one week and per each library’s procedures).  

DESCRIPTION: The Beaver County Historical Research & Landmarks Foundation, located in the 1826 Captain William Vicary Mansion, is recognized as Beaver County’s official Historical Society. The Foundation exists to research, collect and archive local history and artifacts, recognize Beaver County landmarks and educate the local and national audience via instructional programs, reference materials, publications, referrals, and special events. 

The Vicary House was built overlooking the Ohio River in 1829 by Captain William Vicary, a retired Philadelphia merchant sea captain and land speculator. Over the years additional changes were made to the buildings and grounds; several unique adaptations allow visitors to observe early 19th century architecture in the house. It is now owned by Beaver County and is occupied by the Beaver County Historical Research and Landmarks Foundation.  In 1974 it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, noted for its architectural significance. 

The Vicary House is a very busy place, offering many educational, informative, and entertaining programs. Several major events are held there during the year, including the Apple Butter Fest, Hauntings and Ghost Tales, Celebrate America, Spring Tea, Beaver County History Weekend, and Christmas Open House. On Vicary Day a series of authentically historic classes are offered to teach the crafts of the past, such as weaving, spinning, lacemaking, quilting, woodcutting, and gardening.  

A wide selection of archival materials and historic objects are housed at the Beaver County Historical Research and Landmarks Foundation in the Vicary House, including diaries, letters, newspapers, photographs, textiles, and records from over 50 boroughs and townships of Beaver County. 

A variety of programs and speakers are offered; prior to your visit, please check their website for updated information on their ever-changing calendar of events and programs.   

An affiliate of the Heinz History Center, the Vicary House is a beehive of activity! Check out their website for what they are developing next! 

LOCATION: 4743 S. Pioneer Road, Allison Park, PA 15101 

HOURS: Sundays, May through October, from 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. 

*For updated information concerning hours of operation or changes to their calendar of events or programs, please check their website and/or call before your visit. 

WEBSITE: www.dlmuseum.org  

CONTACT: 412-486-0563 or dlm@dlmuseum.org  

ADMISSION: Complimentary-up to two (2) adults and six (6) children under the age of eighteen per visit and per one lending time period (which will be approximately one week and per each library’s procedures). 

DESCRIPTION: The Depreciation Lands Museum and Park was created by Hampton Township in 1973. Their goal was to preserve and interpret the early years of European settlement in the Depreciation Lands, which were areas set aside by the government to compensate its soldiers for their service in the Revolutionary War. 

This is a colonial-era living history settlement in an area that by 1805 was known as Talley Cavey. All the buildings are staffed by knowledgeable, costumed interpreters. The grounds include the original Pine Creek Covenanter Church and cemetery, along with an authentic log house and many reproduction buildings, such as a school, smoke house, bake oven, blacksmith shop, and barn, which holds a Conestoga style wagon, mercantile and workshop. There is also a research library, which contains a collection of books on 18th century history, life, and skills of the time period. In addition, there is a collection of genealogical data, photos, and maps that can be used for research. The historic buildings are open every Sunday during the summer, and the cemetery grounds, furnished with picnic tables, are open from sunrise to sunset every day of the year. 

Special events during the year include Friendship Day, Beggars’ Day, an Adult Tea, Lantern Tours, Threads of Heritage, and various history lectures. 

An affiliate of the Heinz History Center, the Depreciation Lands Museum demonstrates life during colonial days in a village that allows visitors to take a step back in time! 

LOCATION: 100 Ridge Avenue, Washington, PA 15301 

HOURS: Thursday – Sunday, 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.  

*For updated information concerning hours of operation or changes to their calendar of events or programs, please check the website and/or call before you visit. 

WEBSITE: www.duncan-miller.org  

CONTACT: 724-225-9950 or docent@duncan-miller.org  

ADMISSION: Complimentary-up to two (2) adults and six (6) children under the age of eighteen per visit and per one lending time period (which will be approximately one week and per each library’s procedures). 

DESCRIPTION: Before the Pittsburgh area became known for its steel, it was once known as the glass manufacturing center of our country. Glass manufacturing in Western PA began in 1797. By the second half of the 19th century the majority of all glass that was manufactured in the U.S. was produced in our region, due to our location, availability of raw materials, and access to transportation. As the first “Gateway to the West,” Pittsburgh provided the country’s westward expansion with necessary glass items. 

George Duncan had a background in glassworks and eventually became the owner of D. C. Ripley & Co. Glass Works in the Southside area of Pittsburgh, later changing the company name to George Duncan & Sons. He was joined by John Miller, and the company was later relocated to Washington, PA for easier access to transportation and raw materials. In 1893 the new Washington plant opened and remained in operation until 1955. For the first thirty years that the plant was open, only clear glass was produced, but later colored glass and patterned glass were introduced. Although other companies in the tri-state area also produced glass, the Duncan & Miller Glass Company became famous for its workers’ skill, the artistry of designs, and the glass colors. The work came to an abrupt end in 1955; because of mechanization and foreign imports, the production of fine handmade glass became too expensive.  

The National Duncan Glass Society was formed in 1975 to keep alive the history of glass companies, to study their impact on the economic development of the region, and to celebrate the men and women who made it possible. 

The museum is dedicated to sharing the legacy of the Duncan & Miller Glass Co. of Washington, Pennsylvania, and the region’s industrial heritage. Visit to experience the handmade glass industry’s art, science & craftsmanship from 1865 to the present. 

An affiliate of the Heinz History Center, the Duncan Miller Glass Museum recognizes the importance of the glass industry to Western Pennsylvania, commemorates two of the finest glass companies in our country, and celebrates the rich history and beautiful collection of genuine Duncan & Miller glass. 

LOCATION: 210 Liberty Street, Jamestown, PA 16134 (Mercer County) 

HOURS: Monday – Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. tour, and 12:45 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. tour 

Saturday Tours: 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m. 

* Starting March 15, 2025, the Manor is hosting tours every day! 

**Tours have limited space; thus, we would strongly advise you to schedule your tour in advance and as soon as possible.   

*** For updated information concerning hours of operation or changes to their calendar of events or programs, please check the website and/or call before you visit. 

WEBSITE: www.friendsofthemanor.org  

CONTACT: 724-456-4983 (or gibsonhousemanor@allfacilities.com ) to make a reservation 

ADMISSION: Complimentary-up to two (2) adults and six (6) children under the age of eighteen per visit and per one lending time period (which will be approximately one week and per each library’s procedures). 

DESCRIPTION: Gibson House is an historic site that exemplifies “small town USA.” It was built in 1855 by Dr. William Gibson; it was not only the family home, but it was also Dr. Gibson’s office. In addition, it was a “safe house” for slaves since Jamestown was an important crossroad for the underground railroad. The Manor contained secret design elements and hiding places to keep runaways. In addition, the Gibson House Manor was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978 with architectural features of the Greek Revival, Italianate, and Georgian styles. 

The Manor was also well known for its special guest, Samuel Clemons, also known as Mark Twain, who was an American writer, journalist, and humorist, as well as a riverboat pilot, journalist, and inventor. Mark Twain often stayed at the Manor when he was in the area. 

Special events include Candlelight Ghost Tours, Victorian Christmas Around the World Tour, and “Sundays at the Manor.” There is a Scavenger Hunt tour available, a tour led by Mark Twain, Underground Railroad tours, a tour that includes information about the codes that were sewn into quilts during the Civil War, and a paranormal tour in October about the sounds and voices recorded in the house. Check their events calendar for information. 

An affiliate of the Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh, the Gibson House Manor (The Mark Twain Manor) is very involved in the activities that honor and promote the people, history, and events of Jamestown, PA. 

LOCATION: 120 South 3rd Street, Steubenville, Ohio 43952 

HOURS: Open from May through October, Monday – Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 

The Historic Fort Steuben Visitor Center and Museum Shop is open all year, Monday – Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., except Christmas, New Year’s, and other holidays. 

*For updated information concerning hours of operation or changes to their calendar of events or programs, please check their website and/or call before your visit. 

WEBSITE: www.oldfortsteuben.com  

CONTACT: 740-283-1787 or info@oldfortsteuben.com  

ADMISSION: Complimentary-up to two (2) adults and six (6) children under the age of eighteen per visit and per one lending time period (which will be approximately one week and per each library’s procedures). 

DESCRIPTION: Historic Fort Steuben was built in 1787 and was named after Friedrich Wilhelm Steuben, a Prussian army officer who was George Washington’s drillmaster in the Revolutionary War. Now visitors can tour the reconstructed fort to see the soldiers’ quarters, guardhouse, hospital, and commissary, which depict the daily life of the men who helped open the territories to settlement. In addition, on the grounds there is an Exhibit Hall, which provides displays on Ohio’s history and a Federal Land Office, the first one west of the Alleghenies, which shows artifacts and documents that illustrate life in the early 19th century. The Visitors’ Center is part of the Ohio River Scenic Byway and the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail; it is the area’s resource for maps, brochures, and information on local attractions, including the 25 larger-than-life murals throughout downtown Steubenville, as well as souvenirs of the city’s native son, Dean Martin. Finally, there is an herb garden, which contains a variety of herbs that were commonly used in the 18th century. 

During the year many events are offered at Historic Fort Steuben and nearby Fort Steuben Park and the Berkman Amphitheater, including Ohio Valley Frontier Days, The Joys of Quilts show, summer concerts, the summer youth education program, Constitution Day, Brigade of the American Revolution, Light Up Night, and Christmas at the Fort and the Steubenville Nutcracker Village. 

An affiliate of the Heinz History Center, Historic Fort Steuben’s many exhibits, tours, and events tell the story of the Ohio Valley during the 18th century and also help to keep history alive today! 

LOCATION: 218 Mercer Street, Harmony, PA 16037 

HOURS: The Harmony Museum is open Tuesday – Saturday, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.  *Two guided tours are offered each day, one at 1:00 p.m. and the other at 2:30 p.m.  Up to ten (10) people can participate in a tour, thus we would strongly advise you to schedule your tour in advance and as soon as possible.   

*For updated information concerning hours of operation or changes to their calendar of events or programs, please check their website and/or call before your visit. 

WEBSITE: www.harmonymuseum.org  

CONTACT: 724-452-7341 or hmuseum@zoominternet.net  

ADMISSION: Complimentary-up to two (2) adults and six (6) children under the age of eighteen per visit and per one lending time period (which will be approximately one week and per each library’s procedures). 

DESCRIPTION: Harmony, PA was founded in 1804 by Johann Georg Rapp and his religious community. Known as the Harmony Society or Harmonists, Rapp and his followers fled present-day Germany in search of religious freedom. There were about 400 Harmonists who lived communally. They were very industrious and built a strong economy. However, as the group grew, they needed more land, so they sold the community to a Mennonite, Abraham Ziegler, and moved to Indiana. 

One of the primary stops in Harmony is the Harmony Museum, which was built in 1809. It tells the story of the Harmony Society, the Mennonites who came after them, and those who have contributed to the community since then. The museum also features information on George Washington’s 1753 visit to the area and the Ball collection of 19th century sporting rifles.  

In addition to the Harmony Museum, Historic Harmony Inc. owns other properties in the area, including a Mennonite log cabin from the early 1800s and a Mennonite Church and graveyard. A visitor strolling around this quaint village will discover additional historic buildings, some of which house current businesses. The Harmony Historic District is Western Pennsylvania’s first National Landmark District. 

Monthly events are also offered in Harmony, including Harmoniefest, Candlelight Concert, House and Garden Tour, Antique Gun Show, Oktoberfest Dinner, and the museum’s primary annual fundraiser, their German-style Christmas Market.  

An affiliate of the Heinz History Center, Harmony has something for everyone, so come and immerse yourself in 250 years of Western Pennsylvania’s history.