A hidden gem, Carnegie is prime for a bright future

The New Yorker columnist Brenden Gill once said,  “if Pittsburgh were in Europe, people would go miles out of their way to see it.” Undoubtedly there is something remarkable about this pocket of Southwestern Pennsylvania, and its not limited to Pittsburgh. Up and down the hills and river valleys of the region we are rich in small, quaint forgotten towns that if they were somewhere else could be brimming with economic vitality, a high quality of life, and for what it’s worth lots of tourists.

With it’s historical Main Street, period light post, ornate churches, eateries and authentic Irish Pub the Borough of Carnegie is one such place. Chartiers Creek passes right through the center of town.

Like much of the region even a casual ride required that we do some climbing. Architect Bill Edmonds who does a lot of work in Carnegie, his current project is a church restoration, volunteered to put together a route that he felt would show first hand why Carnegie should be on our radar. In roughly ten miles of riding we enjoyed some captivating stories and views. One stop was the Ross Family Cemetery with headstones dating from the 1800’s. Located on ridge right above Chartiers Creek the cemetery is basically located on a cliff. Just a peak through the trees provided an amazing birds eye view of the borough below.  The recently restored Carnegie Library is nestled away in its own nook of town. Carnegie residents enjoy plenty of woodlands. It was a big surprise to see a recently developed eco friendly housing development, including a rain garden. Finally, the house of Pittsburgh Pirate legend Honus Wagner was among the most memorable stops. Apparently the house was still in the family less than ten years ago. Our ride ended at Patty’s Pourhouse where we enjoyed refreshments and an  evening breeze on their back patio.

Borough manager Whitney Brady first visited Carnegie several years ago to volunteer for an event. She knew immediately that she wanted to return to be part of the borough’s revival.  In Carnegie she sees an exciting place full of rich history, natural beauty, and rare charm.  But for now, just like the Honus Wagner home, for sale like any other house in the neighborhood, Carnegie is an overlooked vital chapter in our region’s past. If the shift in values to walkable communities, served well by transit continues on its steady path Carnegie is in an excellent position to reemerge as a bustling community that visitors would go well out of their way to see. Fortunately for us it’s only a fifteen minute bus ride from downtown or a ten mile scenic bike ride that’s a bit hilly at times. We recommend riding there with at least one other person. 

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