Oakmont Carnegie Library
Historical marker location:Historic Landmark
1881: Andrew Carnegie, a Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist, begins his philanthropic efforts in library construction by donating funds to build the Braddock Library in Pennsylvania.
1883: The first "Carnegie Library" is officially established in Dunfermline, Scotland, Carnegie's birthplace. This library serves as a model for future Carnegie Libraries.
1886: Carnegie writes an article titled "Wealth," where he articulates his belief in philanthropy and the responsibility of the wealthy to give back to society.
1889: The Carnegie Corporation of New York is established with the aim of funding the construction of libraries across the United States and other English-speaking countries.
1893: The first Carnegie Library in the United States, the Carnegie Library of Braddock in Pennsylvania, is opened to the public.
Late 1890s to early 1900s: The construction of Carnegie Libraries spreads rapidly throughout the United States and other parts of the English-speaking world, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. The libraries are often designed by prominent architects and feature diverse architectural styles.
1901: The Carnegie Corporation of New York is founded as a philanthropic organization to manage and administer Andrew Carnegie's charitable projects, including the library program.
1902: Carnegie makes a significant endowment, donating $10 million to establish the Carnegie Institute in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Institute includes a library, an art gallery, and a natural history museum.
1917: Andrew Carnegie dies, leaving a lasting legacy of philanthropy, including the establishment of thousands of libraries around the world.
1920s-1930s: The construction of Carnegie Libraries gradually slows down, and the focus shifts to maintaining and updating existing libraries to meet changing community needs.
Late 20th century to present: Many Carnegie Libraries undergo renovations, expansions, or repurposing to adapt to modern library services and technological advancements. Some continue to operate as public libraries, while others have been transformed into cultural centers, museums, community spaces, or educational institutions.
The Carnegie Libraries have left an indelible mark on the accessibility of knowledge and education. They remain a testament to Andrew Carnegie's belief in the power of libraries to uplift communities and provide opportunities for personal and intellectual growth.
Pennsylvania was the site of the deadliest nuclear accident in U.S. history. In 1979, a partial meltdown occurred at the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
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.
Allegheny County Timeline
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.