For more than 100 years, the Steel Valley region of Allegheny County was the epicenter of this country's steel and heavy industry enterprise.
Now, more than a quarter century after the mills closed their doors for good, a local historical and preservation society is working feverishly to show that this part of the Mon Valley is more than steel.
The Society for Pennsylvania and Surrounding Area History is asking current and former residents of the region for their help as part of the organization's call for a new Historic Landmark in the Steel Valley.
The only prerequisite is that the landmark should not be related to the steel industry that reigned in the municipalities of Homestead, West Homestead, Munhall and Whitaker.
"Between six and nine decades, the steel industry here in the area reigned supreme," Albert Ana, the society's president for initiatives said. "The towns of Homestead, Munhall, Whitaker and West Homestead have existed for about 200 years. We want to show the pre-steel years and the post-steel years are just as important historically to this region."
The society is dedicated to conserving and preserving certain ideas and their related impact on communities throughout the region by giving historic landmark status to places or things.
The organization's board members are involved in urban planning and design, technology, psychology, architecture, religion, transportation, fundraising and community development.
Mr. Ana said the society, with help from the public, would select and dedicate a person, place or thing as a historical landmark within the Steel Valley.
"It could be a shop, restaurant, a building, a business owner or even just a resident who can tell a good story about the region. That is what makes this endeavor so important and so interesting."
The devastation left when the steel industry collapsed is prevalent, he noted. But retaining and boosting the region's identity can show that the area is not dead and still has a lot to offer.
"The Steel Valley is rich in history, and not all of it has to do with steel," Mr. Ana said. "The era in which steel was produced here was a very important time. This was the backbone of the country at one time. However, we have a wonderful story to tell outside of that era. And it begins with the people."
From now until April 30, current and former Steel Valley residents can nominate a person, place or thing to be that historic landmark.
Those wishing to be nominators may do so by visiting the organization's website at www.historyofpa.com or by calling 412-894-0655.
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