2024 Observatory Hill House Tour : simplebooklet.com

We are thrilled to welcome you to the 2024Observatory Hill House Tour, themed "Stories ofa Neighborhood; Vol. 2." This year's tourcelebrates the current chapter in the 130+ yearhistory of our vibrant neighborhood. Thesehomes and streets have witnessed countlessstories, and today, you help bring them to life.As we gather for this year's tour, it's clear that Observatory Hillremains a resilient and ever-evolving community. Over the pastyear, our small board of volunteers has worked tirelessly to enhancethe lives of all who live here, be it seen or unseen. Our primary goalover the past year has been focused on community engagement -learning the stories of our longtime residents and our new. OurNeighbor Friday events held from May through October havebrought new life to our neighborhood, giving residents anopportunity to meet their neighbors and find common ground. Our annual House Tour is not just a cherished tradition; it’s thelargest fundraiser for Observatory Hill, Inc., enabling us to continueour mission of preserving homes, restoring buildings, and buildingon our relationships within our small community. Our house touralso affords us the opportunity to learn more about the vast historyof our neighborhood through the untold stories each home holds. On behalf of our board of directors, I warmly welcome you toexplore and enjoy the stories that make Observatory Hill a place somany of us are proud to call home. Thank you for being part of ourongoing story.Jeremy J. Lawler, PresidentObservatory Hill, Inc. & Observatory Hill Development Corporation Welcome to Observatory Hill

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The story of 345 Waldorf Street begins in the early 20th century withChristian Detzel, a man deeply rooted in the history of Allegheny City.Built around 1901, this home was not just another house but a symbol oflegacy. Christian, the son of a well-known figure in Allegheny City,poured his heart into constructing this home, creating a space meant tobe filled with love, life, and family. Sadly, his story was cut short in 1934when he was struck by an automobile on East Street. His wife, Bertha"Birdie" Luther, was left to carry on, raising their eleven children, manyof whom tragically passed away during childhood. Despite thesehardships, the home stood strong, bearing witness to the ebbs and flowsof life within its walls.Over the decades, the house at 345 Waldorf Street lived many lives,quietly holding its stories. In 2015, the home, then in a state of disrepair,was given a new lease on life when Tim Denham and Rick Astle purchasedit. With a passion for restoration and a vision for the future, they set outon a journey to rescue and rejuvenate this historic home.

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Their renovations were extensive: they remodeled the kitchen, added aprimary bathroom and laundry room on the second floor, andtransformed the third floor by adding an exercise room and restoring thebathroom. They replaced the porch with a deck and updated the homewith a new metal roof, plumbing, and electrical wiring. Despite themodern upgrades, they preserved the essence of the home, maintainingits original woodwork, pocket doors, and grand staircase, complete witha stained glass window at the landing.As they peeled back the layers of history, Tim and Rick uncoveredtreasures from the past, from musical instruments and photos to a1940s Cadillac hood ornament hidden in a root cellar beneath thebasement. Their discoveries added new chapters to the home's story, allchronicled on their Facebook page, "The Waldorf: A Story Of."In 2020, the torch was passed to Fabiana and Paul Lehmann, who tookownership of this storied home. With deep respect for its history, theLehmanns have continued the restoration work, focusing on bringingback the stained glass windows, brick walkway, and landscaping, as wellas restoring the front porch to its former glory. Their efforts havebreathed new life into 345 Waldorf Street, making it a beautiful blend ofpast and present.Before you explore this spectacular home, take a moment to discoveranother hidden gem at the end of Waldorf Street: a city staircase.Designated Gribble Street, this old-fashioned staircase features 160steps and offers a glimpse into the charm and character of theneighborhood.The Lehmanns' ongoing dedication ensures that 345 Waldorf Streetremains not just a house but a home rich with history, ready to createnew memories for generations to come.

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The story of 100 Waldorf Street is one of enduring charm, thoughtfulstewardship, and a rich tapestry of history that stretches back over acentury. Now the home of Rebecca Vogan and Reed Dunkle, thispicturesque residence captures the essence of storybook architecturewith its distinctive slate roof, hardwood floors, and unique built-incabinetry and benches. It’s a home that has charmed many, but it wasRebecca and Reed who, after renting for a couple of years, knew it had tobe theirs when the opportunity to buy arose—they didn’t hesitate tomake their best offer, and the rest is history.Rebecca and Reed have poured their hearts into preserving the home’scharacter. Among their updates is the careful restoration of the originalslate roof, plumbing repairs in the bathroom, and a full kitchenrenovation that has breathed new life into the space. The kitchen, oncelacking the charm of the rest of the house due to past updates, wastransformed with a new infrastructure, custom cabinetry, Mexican tileflooring, and granite countertops. The final touch? A stunning backsplashmade of tiles sourced during a recent trip to Spain, infusing a personaltouch that blends history and travel.Outside, the yard has seen its own transformation. Gone are the chainlink fence and old swing set, replaced by a lush cottage garden that feelslike a natural extension of the home’s storybook allure. As with anyhistoric home, there are always projects on the horizon, and Rebeccaand Reed are looking forward to updating the electrical wiring, climatecontrol ducting, and replacing the deck—all while preserving theelements that make this house truly special, like the breezeway’sbeautiful stone floor and the original French doors and main door withits striking red and blue stained glass.

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The history of 100 Waldorf Street is intertwined with the legacy of theLimbach family. Designed and built by Frank Limbach after he retiredfrom his successful sheet metal roofing business, which he started in1901, the home became his retirement sanctuary. Frank’s son Emil tookover the company, which would go on to be the HVAC contractor for thePittsburgh Civic Arena and the mechanical contractor for Three RiversStadium, cementing the family’s place in Pittsburgh’s industrial history.Emil and his wife Sarah, a dedicated civic leader, moved into 100Waldorf following Frank’s passing. Sarah’s commitment to social causes was unwavering—she organizedrelief for Homestead steelworkers in 1919, chaired the IndependentCitizens for Franklin Roosevelt in the early 1940s, and served asExecutive Secretary of the Socialist Party of Pennsylvania. The homebecame not just a residence but a hub of community activism, evenserving as a “frequent rest stop for individuals fleeing Nazi persecution”during World War II.Emil and Sarah’s sons, Walter and Scott, carried on the family traditionof resilience and service. Walter, after serving in the Navy’s V-12 programduring the war, returned to Lehigh University and eventually took thereins of the family business, expanding it from a regional enterprise to aglobal leader in the field. Under his leadership, Limbach Company grewto be recognized as one of the top ten mechanical contractors in thenation by Engineering News-Record in 2017.In 1985, the legacy of the Limbach family extended beyond theirbusiness accomplishments with the creation of the Emil and SarahLimbach Fund, which enabled the opening of the Limbach CommunityCenter on Tripoli Street in Manchester. The center continues to providevital in-home training to families in crisis, embodying the spirit ofcommunity support that Sarah Limbach championed throughout her life.Today, as Rebecca and Reed make their own mark on 100 Waldorf Street,they do so with a deep respect for its past. They’ve embraced the home’squirks and character, honored its history, and are eager to continue thelegacy of transformation and community that has defined thisremarkable residence for generations.

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Welcome to 4068-4072 Franklin Road, a property steeped in history andreimagined as the vibrant Fiasco Art Center. Perched high abovePerrysville Avenue with stunning views of the city skyline, this uniqueresidence once served as the rectory and school for Nativity Parishbefore becoming Incarnation Academy. Today, it stands as a beacon ofcreativity and artistic expression, a place where the past and presentconverge in a celebration of art and community.The story of 4068-4072 Franklin Road begins in 1916 when FatherO'Connor, the first Pastor of the newly formed Nativity Parish, heldservices in a church across the street. As the parish flourished, the needfor a dedicated church building grew, leading to the construction of themagnificent Nativity Parish Church. Completed in 1927 and solemnlydedicated, this building became a cornerstone of the Pittsburghcommunity. Among its notable students were Dan Onorato, CountyExecutive from 2004 to 2012, and Luke Ravenstahl, Mayor from 2006 to2014.

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The church, later known as Incarnation of the Lord Parish, was designedin 1925 by the renowned Pittsburgh architect Carlton Strong. Strong'sdistinctive architectural style, characterized by his expressive use ofbrick, stone, and steeple, is beautifully embodied in the design of thishistoric building. Inside, the dramatic painted beamed roof evokes asense of awe and reverence, a testament to the building’s sacred origins.In 2019, a new chapter began when Ben and Noelle Tolman, along with agroup of artist friends, acquired the property with a vision to transform itinto a dynamic art center. Fiasco Art Center was born from this collectivedream, a space where creativity, exploration, and collaboration couldflourish. The team has worked tirelessly to convert the former CatholicSchool and rectory into a hub of artistic energy. Today, murals,sculptures, and vibrant colors adorn both the interior and exterior walls,creating an immersive environment that celebrates artistic expression inall its forms.Fiasco Art Center is more than just a place for art; it is a realization of adream, a sanctuary where artists and art lovers alike are welcomed into acommunity dedicated to nurturing creativity and connection. With adiverse range of artistic offerings, Fiasco Art Center aims to foster asense of belonging and inspiration, not just within the local community,but beyond.As you join us on this tour, you’ll witness the remarkable transformationof 4068-4072 Franklin Road into the Fiasco Art Center. Step inside andimmerse yourself in the boundless creativity that fills this space. Explorethe captivating artworks, feel the vibrant energy, and experience a placewhere art takes center stage, imagination knows no bounds, andcommunity thrives.

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The story of 4160 Perrysville Avenue is one of mystery, resilience, andtransformation—a home that has weathered the passage of time and nowstands on the brink of a new chapter. Built in 1912 by the HermanKlingler family, this house has seen its share of both joy and challenges,with a history as intriguing as its unconventional architecture.The home’s story began with the Klingler family, who brought it to lifeover a century ago. Yet, shortly after they moved in, sadness touchedthe family when Mrs. Klingler passed away at the young age of 25. As timewent on, the home eventually landed in the hands of the Pivirotto familyaround 1918. The Pivirotto’s, too, experienced their own set ofchallenges. Their time in the house was marked by a few misfortunes,including a burglary where 12 cases of whiskey and valuable jewelry werestolen from the home. Despite these setbacks, the family remained aprominent part of the community, with Mr. Pivirotto serving as Chairmanof the Board for the Continental Commercial Corporation.

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Over the years, 4160 Perrysville Avenue became home to variousfamilies, each adding their own stories to its walls. But in August 2024, anew chapter began when Dawn Mondock purchased the home, drawn toits quirky charm and rich history. With a deep desire to be close tofriends in Observatory Hill, Dawn knew she had found something specialin this unique and character-filled house. Embracing its blend ofHollywood Regency and Atomic Era vibes, she embarked on a journey torestore and reimagine the space, leaning into its eccentricities with akeen eye for lighting design that will play a central role in her vision.For Dawn, the home’s fenced-in yard was love at first sight—a perfectplayground for her giant yet lovable pup, Dolly. An avid collector ofuranium glass, Dawn is excited to showcase her glowing collectionthroughout the home, adding another layer of intrigue and charm. As shebegins to make the house her own, she is eager to honor its past whileembracing its quirks and unique history. Dawn sees the beauty in itsangled walls and unconventional spaces, and she is ready to write herown story within them.4160 Perrysville Avenue is more than just a house; it’s a place where thepast and future meet, where history’s shadows mingle with the light ofnew beginnings. Dawn Mondock’s arrival marks a fresh turn of the pagein the life of this remarkable home, as she honors the tales of those whocame before while crafting her own story in its storied halls.

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Step back in time and explore the storied history of this Craftsman housewith Tudor influences, a charming focal point nestled on PerrysvilleAvenue. Built in 1920, this home has been a silent witness to over acentury of Pittsburgh’s history, and the lives of those who called ithome. The original owner, George Magnani, became a naturalized US citizen inNovember 1920. George and his wife Clara moved to Atlantic City in1927; George became the proprietor of the Italian Gardens Restaurantthere. He and his wife Clara sold 3815 Perrysville Ave to Dominic andAnna Nardina in 1928. Dominic died in 1933. The 1950 census shows Anna living at 3815 with her daughter Alfreda,Alfreda’s husband Regis Welsh and their son Regis Jr., and daughter AnnRegina Nicolazzo. Mr. Regis Welsh was a distinguished writer for both thePittsburgh Post and The New York Daily News. Known for his insightfuland passionate coverage of boxing, his byline became a hallmark ofsports journalism during his time. His career brought him into closefriendships with many of the pugilistic greats of the era, including thelegendary Jack Dempsey. These walls have surely echoed with stories ofboxing triumphs and defeats, shared over family dinners in the diningroom with its impressive beamed ceilings.

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After the Welsh family, the house passed into the hands of itssubsequent owners, who lovingly maintained the property, ensuring itscontinued beauty and comfort. They installed new windows, replacedthe furnace and air conditioning systems, and had the brick pointed,preserving the home’s structural integrity. Their careful stewardship ofthe home laid the foundation for its next chapter. Inside, the house retains many of its original features, a testament to itsenduring appeal. The original woodwork and glass doorknobs addcharacter, while four fireplaces, provide architectural focus. The livingroom, with its French doors leading to the sunroom, and the dining room,both feature impressive, beamed ceilings. On your way upstairs, take amoment to admire the stained glass window on the first landing, abeautiful piece of craftsmanship that has stood the test of time. Thesecond floor houses bedrooms, each with original woodwork, hardwoodfloors, and fireplaces. Now, under the care of the current owner, Kevin Scott, the homecontinues to be a beacon of charm on Perrysville Avenue. The currentowner has made improvements to maintain the historic tile roof,restoring the original sunroom windows and door, and painting theinterior and exterior. Period-appropriate chandeliers have been installedin the dining room and foyer. Ongoing work includes reviving interiorwoodwork, replacing the front porch and steps and adding missinghandrails. Kevin continues to work on the surrounding landscape toimprove its sustainability and beauty. This house is more than just a residence; it’s a piece of Pittsburgh’shistory, lovingly cared for by those who appreciate its past and areexcited for its future.

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As the congregation quickly outgrew this original chapel, a new churchmade of Tippecanoe sandstone was erected on the same site in 1898.Watson Memorial Presbyterian itself had a storied past, beginning asWatson Mission on Easter Sunday in 1891 with 45 members. Themission’s chapel, built on land donated by Miss Watson, was dedicateddebt-free in 1892. By 1897, the growing congregation needed a largerspace and erected a new stone church. The original chapel was relocated to Riverview Park, where it remainstoday as a beloved picnic shelter. The current, more grandiose structurethat stands today was designed by architect Edward Allison andcompleted in 1908. Constructed of sandstone, the church is notable forits imposing bell tower and a stunning stained glass window depictingMary Magdalene with a passage from John 20:16.In 1977, Riverview United was formed through the consolidation ofWatson Memorial, Eighth United, and North End United PresbyterianChurches, becoming a cornerstone of the community. Pittsburgh Higher Ground was founded in October 2019 by PastorDolores J. Thrower, who initially held services in her home with just ahandful of congregants. As the ministry expanded, Sunday servicesmoved to Perry High School. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic in2020, when schools and businesses were forced to close, Pastor Throweradapted by holding services via Zoom. Seeking a permanent home forher growing congregation, Pastor Thrower found and purchased thehistoric building at the corner of Perrysville and Riverview Avenues.Today, Pittsburgh Higher Ground continues the legacy of communityservice and spiritual guidance from this storied location, uplifting theneighborhood and leading its members to higher grounds.

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The Riverview Park Visitors Center, nestled at the entrance of RiverviewPark, was built in the 1930s during the Works Progress Administration(WPA) era, this structure, along with the main entrance, bus stops, andtrails, was part of an effort to revitalize the area following the GreatDepression. In 2003, the Visitors Center was thoughtfully restored,featuring a new slate roof, copper gutters and downspouts, and arefreshed sidewalk. The exterior stonework was carefully cleaned andrepaired. Urban planners a century ago embraced the "Garden City" concepts,aiming to integrate nature into urban life—a vision beautifully realized inthe green expanses of Observatory Hill. Today, Riverview Park offerslimitless opportunities for neighbors to connect with nature, stay active,and enjoy time with friends and family. Popular activities include hiking,nature walks, dog walking, bird watching, running, tennis, cycling,swimming, horseback riding, and attending free movies and jazzconcerts. Established in 1894, Riverview Park predates the 1907annexation of Allegheny City into Pittsburgh and is distinguished by itsdense woodlands and steep terrain.

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Stretching across 259 acres and bordered by Perrysville Avenue, WoodsRun, and Marshall Avenue, Riverview Park is celebrated for its extensivenetwork of wooded trails, dramatic hillsides, and iconic landmarks suchas the Allegheny Observatory. The park’s features also include aswimming pool, an activities building, the scenic Mairdale watershed,and the popular two-mile Riverview Loop. Residents enjoy the park'samenities, including a pool, playground, ball fields, shelters, andsummertime concerts and movies.The Chapel Shelter, a historic picnic shelter that once served as aPresbyterian church, was meticulously restored by the ParksConservancy in 2008. This restoration included the creation of a newtrail, the planting of numerous native trees and shrubs, and the clearingof invasive species. Looking ahead, plans for Riverview Park include therestoration of the historic Watson’s Cabin and continued restorationefforts in the Snyder’s Point natural area.The park’s origins date back to 1894, when Mayor William M. Kennedyand other Allegheny City citizens purchased farmland from Sam Watsonin response to Pittsburgh's creation of Schenley Park. Riverview Parkbecame the largest public park in Allegheny City, a distinction it stillholds, and it is now Pittsburgh’s fourth-largest park and the only regionalpark tracing its origins to another city. Notable features include theAllegheny Observatory, the city’s only equestrian path within a park, andnumerous hiking trails that weave through its densely wooded areas.In a delightful historical footnote, across the Allegheny River on what istoday Pittsburgh’s North Side, Allegheny City once housed a modest zooin Riverview Park, established in 1896. This zoo featured an eight-footpine snake, various small native animals, a bear pit, an aviary known as a"flying cage," and paddocks for deer, elk, Rocky Mountain goats, andzebu, a type of Asian cattle. Reports indicate the zoo was still inoperation in 1914, although some sources suggest it closed in 1910.Most recently, Riverview Park has been designated a nationally certifiedarboretum, effectively making it an outdoor museum of trees. Thiscertification, awarded by the ArbNET Arboretum Accreditation Programand the Morton Arboretum, acknowledges Riverview Park’s adherence tonationally recognized standards of professional practices crucial forarboreta and botanical gardens. This accolade was proudly received justdays before Arbor Day on April 26, 2024, marking Riverview Park asPittsburgh’s third Level 1 arboretum—a testament to its enduring legacyand natural beauty.

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The Allegheny Observatory was originally founded on February 15, 1859,by a group of wealthy industrialists known as the Allegheny TelescopeAssociation. Their inspiration to create the observatory came after theappearance of the Great Comet of 1858, sparking a desire to explore theheavens. However, the outbreak of the Civil War soon after led to theobservatory falling into disuse. In 1867, the observatory was donated tothe Western University of Pennsylvania, now known as the University ofPittsburgh, which has maintained ownership ever since.Samuel Pierpont Langley was appointed as the first director, bringingnew life and direction to the observatory with several researchprograms. One of his most notable contributions was the study ofsunspots, and his detailed illustrations remain a valuable resource inastronomy today. In 1869, Langley introduced an innovativesubscription service to provide accurate time, determined byastronomical measurements, to subscribers via telegraph. Among themost influential subscribers was the Pennsylvania Railroad, making

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Allegheny Time the first regular and systematic time distribution servicefor railroads and cities, laying the groundwork for the modern timesystem. On November 18, 1883, the Allegheny Observatory transmitted asignal to mark noon, Eastern Standard Time, which synchronized railroadschedules across North America—a practice that continues to this day.Construction of a new observatory building began in 1900 at a newlocation, and the project was completed in 1912. This new facility is theobservatory we know today. Shortly after its completion, theobservatory acquired the Thaw Memorial Refractor, a 47-foot, 8,000-pound telescope built by the Brashear Optical Company. Designedspecifically for photographic use, the Thaw Memorial Refractor hascaptured approximately 110,000 exposures on glass plates and remainsin use under the observatory's largest dome.The current Allegheny Observatory was thoughtfully designed with thecommunity in mind, featuring a library, lecture hall, classrooms,laboratories, offices, and three dome-shaped telescope rooms. Itsaesthetic design reflects the harmony of art and science, making it notjust a research center but also a cherished architectural landmark of theObservatory Hill neighborhood and the city of Pittsburgh.Today, the observatory remains an active hub of research and education.Current projects include studying shadow bands during lunar eclipsesand employing modern imaging techniques with historic telescopes.Looking ahead, the observatory aims to expand its outreach programs,engaging a diverse audience from local community members and schoolgroups to scouts and special high school projects. This outreach is supported by Dr. Rachel Bezanson's NSF CAREER Award(2144313) and the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences at the Universityof Pittsburgh, ensuring that the Allegheny Observatory continues toinspire and educate future generations.

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The story of 35 Riverview Avenue is one of elegance, community, andtransformation—a home that has witnessed over a century of history andcontinues to stand as a testament to the enduring charm of ColonialRevival architecture. Built in 1898 by Walter and Marion Smart, thishouse was crafted by George Antill, a local contractor from FranklinRoad, at a time when the Smarts were prominent members of thecommunity. Mr. Smart, a pharmacist with a practice at the corner ofPerrysville and Kennedy, and his wife Marion, were deeply involved inboth social and political circles.In 1914, the Smarts hosted a memorable musicale at their home, incollaboration with the Hiett, Pentecost, and McCausland families, tobenefit the Eighth District of the Woman Suffrage Party. The event wasfollowed by an address from Miss Mary Bakewell of the renownedBakewell/McKnight glassmaking family. A passionate reformer and co-founder of the Allegheny County Equal Rights Association, Bakewell'sefforts focused on promoting childhood education and advocating forwomen’s rights. This gathering not only underscored the home’s role as acommunity hub but also aligned it with the broader movement for socialchange, echoing the aspirations of the era.

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The Smarts spared no expense when building this stately residence,investing $5,000 for the house and an additional $2,000 for the lot—asignificant sum in those days. The family’s connections ran deep;Marion’s brother even served as the mayor of Allegheny City, addinganother layer of interest to the home’s history.After the 1920s, 35 Riverview Avenue saw a period of change, as it wasconverted into four apartments. When Jeff and Michele Bees purchasedthe home in 1999, they were fortunate that some of the work to restoreit to a single-family residence had already been undertaken. Jeff andMichele took on the task of completing the restoration, updating theplumbing, electrical, and heating and air conditioning systems, andadding new insulation and windows. They also remodeled the kitchenand bathrooms and replaced the front porch, all while preserving thehome’s original character.The Colonial Revival style, characterized by its emphasis on symmetry, isevident throughout the home’s façade and windows, particularly in thecentered front dormer and the neatly aligned windows below it. Inside,the house boasts six fireplaces, inlaid floors, and elegant pocket doors.Look closely, and you might notice the "finger staining" on some of thewoodwork—a popular faux finishing technique from the time.As you explore the first floor, take a moment to admire a specialphotograph in the hallway, showcasing the Guskey Hebrew Orphanage(once located where the Byzantine Seminary now stands) and the oldWatson Presbyterian Church, which today serves as the Chapel Shelterin Riverview Park. And if you happen upon the mysterious door belowthe bay window in the dining room, see if you can unravel its purpose—Jeff and Michele would love to hear your theories!

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Nestled on the edge of Riverview Park, 3131 Perrysville Avenue, is a trueblend of historical charm and modern refinement. Originally built in 1916by a stone company owner, this handsome stone house from the 1920stells a tale of resilience and transformation. Over time, the house fellinto disrepair and was eventually abandoned, sitting empty for severalyears until it went into foreclosure. In 2010, Bill Oberst, a neighbor fromObservatory Hill, recognized the hidden potential within its weatheredwalls and embarked on a comprehensive renovation, reviving thestructure with meticulous care. Oberst's efforts included installing a new roof, double-hung windows,updated plumbing and electrical systems, and modern heating and airconditioning. New kitchen appliances were added, all while preservingthe original moldings and trim that spoke to the home's storied past. Bythe time Mick Rizzo discovered the house online in 2011, it was alreadywell on its way to becoming the charming residence it is today. Drawn byits seamless blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, Mick visitedPittsburgh, and it was love at first sight.Mick knew he had found his dream home the moment he set foot on thenewly designed walkway leading to a custom front entrance with sidepanels and a transom window—evoking the charm of a sophisticatedstorybook cottage. The thoughtfully curated garden provided a picture-perfect entrance, hinting at the allure that lay within.

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Inside, Mick stripped the white paint off the stairway in the foyer,replacing the missing pieces with red oak to match the original, andcontinued this restoration in the master bedroom. He even had thecabinets in the newly renovated kitchen crafted from red oak, preservingthe home's historical character. The living room and foyer showcase a stunning interplay of old and new,with original woodwork and antique leaded glass juxtaposed againstcontemporary elements like a sheet-metal sculpture and a pigskinsconce from Spain. Mick added two new art pieces: "Winter Scene" in theliving room, reminiscent of Pittsburgh, by French artist Gaston Pedridis,and "Moonlight Sail," a limited-edition painting by renowned Disneyartist Walfrido Garcia, which now graces the fireplace in thebar/sunroom. A delicate white ceramic angel by Lladro adds an etherealtouch to the living room. The dining room offers sweeping views of Riverview Park andPittsburgh’s western skyline, enhanced by art pieces from Spain thatbring a touch of Barcelona to the space. The sunroom, back porch, andpatio are perfect vantage points to enjoy the park, while the Tuscanarbors in the backyard, now almost fully covered by lush wisteria,enhance the feeling of country living within the city. Mick personallyrestored the living room fireplace with ceramic tiles, adding his owncraftsmanship to the home's enduring charm. The kitchen remodelincluded the installation of Talavera tiles from Barcelona behind the sink—a treasured piece that Mick insisted the contractor work around, as itpredated the new kitchen and first-floor half bath! The restored banisterin the entryway is a nod to the home's historical integrity, blendingeffortlessly with the fresh and modern updates throughout. Mick’s passion for enhancement didn't stop there. He commissionedLoyal Knight Landscaping to redesign the entire yard and added anobservatory deck to the backyard—a fitting tribute to theneighborhood's celestial connections. During the deck's construction, anoriginal stone patio was uncovered, becoming a delightful feature of therevamped outdoor space. Brendan Wallace of Living Earth Builderscrafted the pergolas and observatory deck from locust wood, addingrustic charm to this backyard haven. Today, Mick affectionately calls his home "Chateau Rizzo," cherishing itsunique blend of history, modern comforts, and proximity to nature. ForMick, 3131 Perrysville Avenue is more than just a house—it’s the perfecthome, where the conveniences of city life meet the tranquility of thecountryside, offering a harmonious and fulfilling lifestyle.

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The stately Colonial Revival at 3202 Perrysville Avenue, now home toAutumn and Eric Williams, has a rich history that mirrors the rise andtransformation of Observatory Hill. Built between 1899 and 1900 forHerman F. and Harriet Borchers, this home was designed by renownedPittsburgh architect Chancey W. Hodgdon, who expertly captured theColonial Revival style's signature elements: a hipped roof with lowdormers, a centered front entrance, nearly symmetrical façade, andclassic Palladian-inspired windows. At the time, Colonial Revival was thearchitectural style of choice in Pittsburgh, reflecting a shift towardssimpler, historical designs.Herman Borchers, a young bank teller, and Harriet, only 25 and 19 yearsold respectively, invested $6,000 to construct this impressive residenceon a lot that cost $4,500—a significant sum for the era. The Borchers’home, with its three-story brick structure and classic detailing, quicklybecame a social hub, complete with a servant’s quarters and amplespace for their growing family, which included daughters Grace andHarriet.

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By 1903, Herman had advanced to assistant secretary and treasurer atPennsylvania Title and Trust Company before moving on to ColonialTrust Company, where he eventually became assistant treasurer.Unfortunately, his promising career took a downturn in 1914 when hepleaded guilty to embezzling from Colonial Trust Company. Herman wasfined and served time in the Allegheny County Workhouse, and upon hisrelease in 1917, the family relocated to Aspinwall.The Borchers sold 3202 Perrysville Avenue in 1907 for $13,750.Subsequent owners included Charles Albrecht, a mill superintendent,and Morris Schwartz, a business owner. In 1920, Schwartz added a three-story rear addition to the home, costing an estimated $5,000, whichexpanded the living space while maintaining the original architecturalstyle.Throughout its existence, 3202 Perrysville Avenue has seen a total of 11owners, each contributing to its storied past. Notably, the house alsodisplays influences of the Richardsonian Romanesque style, evident inits rough-cut stone lintels, a nod to architect Henry Hobson Richardson’siconic works like the Allegheny County Courthouse and Jail.Hodgdon, the architect behind 3202 Perrysville, was a prominent figurein Pittsburgh’s architectural scene from the 1890s to the 1920s. Hisportfolio spanned residential, commercial, and religious structures,including Albright Methodist Church in Shadyside and St. Luke’sLutheran Church in Perry Hilltop. Hodgdon’s designs, characterized bytheir historical reverence and thoughtful details, contributedsignificantly to the architectural fabric of Pittsburgh.Today, Autumn and Eric Williams cherish 3202 Perrysville Avenue notonly for its architectural beauty but also for the rich history embeddedwithin its walls. As they continue to care for and preserve this grandhome, they honor the legacy of those who came before, ensuring thatthis piece of Observatory Hill's heritage endures for future generations.

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Observatory Hill stretches along Perrysville Avenue from theintersection of Marshall and Perrysville Avenues north to the border ofRoss Township. Interstate 279, Ivory Avenue, and McKnight Road form itseastern boundaries. To the west, the neighborhood meets Riverview Parkand Brighton Heights beyond the park. First referred to as “The DouglasDistrict,” Observatory Hill was originally part of Allegheny City. Settlerstraveled often from Pittsburgh to a fort located in Franklin to the northvia Franklin Road, just north of Engine House #34 on Perrysville Avenue.Perrysville Avenue was part of the Venango Trail, an Indian Path.Commodore Perry used the Venango Trail to move supplies north to Erie,to build the fleet that defeated the British in the Battle of Lake Erieduring the War of 1812. After the war, a portion of the Venango Trail wasrebuilt and ‘planked’. It was named the Perrysville Plank Road in honor ofCommodore Perry.Between 1812 and 1890, most of the area was farmland. Two prominentlandowners of the era were Samuel Watson and John Dunlap. Mr. Dunlapowned the land now bounded by present day East Street, PerrysvilleAvenue, I-279, and Venture Street. Mr. Watson owned the tracts of landthat straddled both sides of Perrysville Avenue and included all of theland which became Riverview Park.One of the barriers to the development of the neighborhood was the lackof convenient, reliable transportation. Although located only five milesnorth of downtown Allegheny, horses and horse- drawn trolleys had adifficult time making the climb to the neighborhood. The highest point inPittsburgh is located in Observatory Hill: Reservoir Hill - above Franklinjust north of the Vinceton intersection.The region’s second electrified trolley line solved that transportationissue. The line opened in the mid-1890s. Within a decade, theneighborhood was in the midst of a building boom. In 1894, Watson soldAllegheny the land that became Riverview Park. Mr. Dunlap sold his landto T. S. Buchfield. By 1903, the Dunlap Place Plan was organized, andincluded the present-day streets of Richey, Ruggles, Dunlap, andCherryfield. Mr. Watson subdivided a large portion of remaining land intothe Watson Plan that is encircled by Watson Boulevard and PerrysvilleAvenue.

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Development continued through the annexation of Allegheny City by theCity of Pittsburgh in 1907. The University of Pittsburgh opened the doorsof the neighborhood’s signature landmark and namesake, AlleghenyObservatory, in 1912.Scientists and the Observatory quickly established themselves in theengineering of quality optic lenses and in discoveries, such as the Ringsof Saturn. To support the Observatory’s operation, Langley and otherscientists devised a system of extremely accurate timekeeping and soldthe service, “Allegheny Time,” to the Pennsylvania Railroad. More recentfields of inquiry focus on explorations of star fields to discover otherplanetary systems in which nearby stars exhibit behaviors that indicatethey may have planetary systems surrounding them. This search forextrasolar planetary systems continues to this day.With the growing population, more trolleys began to serve theneighborhood, including trolleys that ran down East Street andPerrysville Avenue. The most famous trolley in Observatory Hill was thenumber 8. In fact, it is featured in an advertisement from the MenkenReal Estate Company when they marketed the Marshall FieldsDevelopment around 1920. The building boom in the area continuedthrough the late 1920s. About this time, the automobile was quicklybecoming the primary mode of transportation.Trolleys remained in service until the mid 1960s when they began to bereplaced by buses. By the early 1980s, with the collapse of the steelindustry and Pittsburgh’s decline, many of the once grand homes ofObservatory Hill had fallen into disrepair.Toward the end of that decade, a new wave of homeowners began to buythese once grand structures. This new generation began to restore thehouses in the neighborhood. This activity has continued to the present.Observatory Hill continues to thrive because of the high quality of life inthe community, including assets like Riverview Park, featuring theObservatory as well as tennis, hiking, biking, swimming, event space, anda dog park, easy accessibility to other city neighborhoods and amenities,convenient public transit, affordable and historic housing, and so muchmore.The residents and business owners of Observatory Hill are proud of thevariety in the neighborhood and the diverse population of long-time andnew residents continuously working to preserve Observatory Hill’s pastand invigorate the community’s future.

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Get Involved Become a member of OHI today!We live in one of the safest and most conveniently locatedneighborhoods in the city.Observatory Hill, Inc. cares about you and works hard to protectthe things and places we all love and continues to improve ourquality of life. Amazing things get accomplished by neighbors getting togetherand recognizing the problems, forming a plan of action, andworking to solve them. We are fortunate to have a strongneighborhood group and a direct opportunity to affect change. Join OHI

2024 Observatory Hill House Tour

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