National Register Listing

Fortieth Street Bridge

a.k.a. Washington Crossing Bridge

Fortieth St. over Allegheny River, Millvale, PA
Local significance of the structure:
Engineering

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1988.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

bridges
Pennsylvania was home to the first commercially drilled oil well in the world, which was drilled in 1859 near Titusville.
Pennsylvania random facts
Allegheny County, located in western Pennsylvania, has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Shawnee and Delaware, European settlers arrived in the area during the 18th century. The French and Indian War and the American Revolution played significant roles in shaping the early days of the county, with events like the Battle of Bushy Run and the Whiskey Rebellion taking place within its borders.

The county's development, particularly in the 19th and 20th centuries, was heavily influenced by the rise of industry. With its abundant natural resources, including coal and iron ore, Allegheny County became a major center for steel production, earning the moniker "Steel City." The expansion of railroads and the construction of the Erie Canal further facilitated economic growth in the area.

Throughout its history, Allegheny County has been home to influential figures in politics, business, and culture. Pittsburgh, the county seat and largest city, has produced notable individuals such as Andrew Carnegie, who built a vast steel empire, and Rachel Carson, environmentalist and author of "Silent Spring." The region's thriving arts scene also includes the Carnegie Museums, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and the Pittsburgh Opera.

In recent decades, Allegheny County has undergone a transformation from an industrial powerhouse to a more diversified economy focused on healthcare, education, technology, and robotics. Although the decline of the steel industry caused significant challenges, the county has rebounded by embracing new industries and investing in urban revitalization efforts.

Today, Allegheny County remains a vibrant and culturally rich area, with a strong spirit of resilience and innovation. Its history continues to shape its present, as the county keeps evolving and adapting to the changing economic and social landscape.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

  • 1788 - Allegheny County is established on September 24.
  • 1794 - The "Whiskey Rebellion" protests occur in the county.
  • 1840 - The Pennsylvania Railroad arrives in Allegheny County, stimulating industrial development.
  • 1873 - The Great Railroad Strike takes place in the county.
  • 1889 - The Johnstown Flood affects parts of Allegheny County.
  • 1907 - The Pittsburgh Pirates, now known as the Pittsburgh Steelers, are founded in Allegheny County.
  • 1968 - Pittsburgh becomes the county seat of Allegheny County.
  • 1981 - The collapse of the Kinzua Bridge impacts the county's transportation infrastructure.
  • 1998 - The completion of the Pittsburgh International Airport's new terminal enhances air travel in the county.
  • 2018 - Allegheny County celebrates its 230th anniversary.