Pittsburgh is brimming with history. So much history that we probably don’t even realize when we pass it by or walk on it. Shadyside, one of Pittsburgh’s most vibrant neighborhoods, offers plenty to do, from shopping to staying healthy. But, did you know it’s also home to one of the last wooden streets in America?
Only two states boast exposed wooden streets in America today: Alaska and Pennsylvania. As a result, Roslyn Place in Shadyside has earned its rightful designation as a Historic Landmark.
Flickr/Payton Chung
Built in 1914, the wooden street originally comprised of 26,000 wooden bricks. However, before the bricks could be laid, five men cut the blocks over a six month period.
Flickr/Joseph
At 250 feet long, the historic wooden street sits in front of 18 houses, built just a few years after the road itself.
Flickr/Kathy
Of course, the street has endured its fair share of damage over the years. The city, at the request of Roslyn Place’s residents, fully restored the road in 1985.
Wikimedia Commons/Zach Weinberg
Weather and other elements still impact the health of the wooden street. But, the residents of Roslyn Place work hard to maintain the road. When it snows, they shovel the road and the sidewalks themselves. Salt is never scattered on the road, in part because plows and other emergency vehicles cannot fit down the slim road.
Wikimedia Commons/Public Domain
Today, Roslyn Place attracts tourists from around the world who want to see and to touch one of the last wooden streets in America (and the world).
Flickr/Kathy
Have you been to Shadyside to see one of the last wooden streets in America? What did you think? Fascinated by Pittsburgh’s history? Click here to read about the Donora Smog Tragedy.
Flickr/Payton Chung
Flickr/Joseph
Flickr/Kathy
Wikimedia Commons/Zach Weinberg
Wikimedia Commons/Public Domain
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