Holiday Cheers! A Truly Unique Winery Experience
Join head vintner, Duane Rieder, on-location at the Engine House 25 Wines, a discreet and private wine cellar under the Clemente Museum. DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh gives you an on-location tour
Join head vintner, Duane Rieder, on-location at the Engine House 25 Wines, a discreet and private wine cellar under the Clemente Museum.
DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh gives you an on-location tour virtually inside this unique space. Learn about their winemaking process, the varietals, and how this amazing winery came to be!
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on December 21, 2020.
Bayernhof Museum: Music Boxes & Other Obscure History
We invite you for a virtual on-location peek inside one of Pittsburgh’s most unusual mansions–the Bayernhof Museum. This mansion contains a world-class collection of music boxes and other antique automatic
We invite you for a virtual on-location peek inside one of Pittsburgh’s most unusual mansions–the Bayernhof Museum. This mansion contains a world-class collection of music boxes and other antique automatic music machines, as well as many other fascinating items. Join us for this truly one-of-a-kind adventure, that will leave you wanting to see more in-person later!
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on December 14, 2020.
To Pittsburgh, from Germany with love: Holiday Markets
German Christmas markets date back to the 1400’s. Did you know that many of our beloved Christmas traditions evolved from these markets? We uncover the stories and magnificence of these
German Christmas markets date back to the 1400’s. Did you know that many of our beloved Christmas traditions evolved from these markets? We uncover the stories and magnificence of these traditions, igniting the Holiday spirit in all of us!
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on December 7, 2020.
Daniel Burnham: Made No Little Plan in Pittsburgh
Did you know that, outside Chicago, no other city has more Burnham buildings? Learn more about this man and the buildings he built in Pittsburgh from local author and historian,
Did you know that, outside Chicago, no other city has more Burnham buildings? Learn more about this man and the buildings he built in Pittsburgh from local author and historian, Mark Houser.
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on November 30, 2020.
Your Storyteller
Mark Houser is a Pittsburgh writer and speaker and author of the new book MultiStories: 55 Antique Skyscrapers & the Business Tycoons Who Built Them. He has traveled across the country and beyond in search of the world’s best landmark tall buildings, and he regularly offers a popular Antique Skyscraper Rooftops & Views tour for DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh. Houser has appeared on NPR, CNN, and FOX and given a TEDx Talk about the history of bridges and life of John Roebling. His website is HouserTalks.com.
City Stairs: Stepping Back into Pittsburgh’s History One Staircase at a Time
City steps were the first mass transportation system, designed to bring workers from the hills to the mills. Did you know that Pittsburgh has the most stairways of any other
City steps were the first mass transportation system, designed to bring workers from the hills to the mills. Did you know that Pittsburgh has the most stairways of any other city in the U.S? Step back through Pittsburgh’s history of these staircases with author Laura Zurwoski.
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on November 23, 2020.
H. J. Heinz — Secrets of a Pickle King
We all know about the ketchup and pickles. But what do we know about H.J. Heinz the man? Sunday schools and opulence, alcohol and purity, love, and betrayal. This is
We all know about the ketchup and pickles. But what do we know about H.J. Heinz the man? Sunday schools and opulence, alcohol and purity, love, and betrayal. This is that story. Grab a pickle, take a seat, and join us for the story behind the man.
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on November 16, 2020.
Your Storyteller
Pamela Gianni, MD is a native Pittsburgher and second generation Italo-American, who loves all things Pittsburgh. She joined DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh as a volunteer tour curator, and now virtual storyteller, in 2019. In her day job, she’s a Medical Consultant to the Social Security Administration.
Behind the Stage Doors: Shama Lama Ding Dong
If you are a music fan who grew up in Pittsburgh over the last 50 years, you know the name Johnny Angel. Johnny invites you into his museum, Ginchy Stuff,
If you are a music fan who grew up in Pittsburgh over the last 50 years, you know the name Johnny Angel. Johnny invites you into his museum, Ginchy Stuff, to take a stroll through music history where you will recognize Chubby Checker, Little Richard, many performers from the Motown era, and Pittsburgh legends as well like the Skyliners.
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on November 6, 2020.
Behind The Stage Doors: Rocking at the T-Bird
The Thunderbird Cafe & Music Hall had humble beginnings. In 1933 this space was known as Michalski’s Café and was granted the 2nd liquor license in the city of Pittsburgh
The Thunderbird Cafe & Music Hall had humble beginnings. In 1933 this space was known as Michalski’s Café and was granted the 2nd liquor license in the city of Pittsburgh after prohibition. Fast-forward, what we all know now as the Thunderbird, in Lawrenceville.
Learn more about this venue and the blues and rock performers who have graced this stage from current owner John Pergal, and relax and enjoy a live acoustic performance by Ric Proudfoot.
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on November 5, 2020.
Behind the Stage Doors: A Promoter’s Life
Do you enjoy large-scale concerts in the 70’ and 80’s here in Pittsburgh? Ever wonder who makes that happen? Meet one of Pittsburgh’s prominent concert promoters, Rich Engler, of DiCesare-Engler
Do you enjoy large-scale concerts in the 70’ and 80’s here in Pittsburgh? Ever wonder who makes that happen? Meet one of Pittsburgh’s prominent concert promoters, Rich Engler, of DiCesare-Engler Productions.
Rich will give you the “real” stories about the concert business – including anecdotes about some of the most iconic bands and solo artists in the industry.
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on November 2, 2020.
Votes for Women in Western Pennsylvania
Join us as we explore women’s battle for the election ballot in Western Pennsylvania. Meet little-known Pittsburgh suffragists who paraded, protested, and rallied their way to the ballot box. Along
Join us as we explore women’s battle for the election ballot in Western Pennsylvania. Meet little-known Pittsburgh suffragists who paraded, protested, and rallied their way to the ballot box.
Along the way they drove primitive trucks over Pennsylvania back roads, lobbied political bosses for support, and invented creative ways to raise money for their cause.
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on August 17, 2020.
Pittsburgh’s First Pandemic: The White Plague
Join DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh for the inside story behind the White Plague that ravaged Pittsburgh at the turn of the century. Little was known about tuberculosis and we can learn from
Join DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh for the inside story behind the White Plague that ravaged Pittsburgh at the turn of the century. Little was known about tuberculosis and we can learn from their trials with this disease in 1915.
Like the Coronavirus pandemic today, the disease we now call tuberculosis changed everyday life forever.
We’ll show you what social distancing and unproven treatments looked like for back in 1915 for Pittsburghers, and the social changes from 1915 we’re still living with today, long after the White Plague was cured.
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on July 25, 2020.
Your Storyteller
Pamela Gianni, MD is a native Pittsburgher and second generation Italo-American, who loves all things Pittsburgh. She joined DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh as a volunteer tour curator, and now virtual storyteller, in 2019. In her day job, she’s a Medical Consultant to the Social Security Administration.
Multi-stories: Skyscrapers and the Tycoons That Built Them
Back when skyscrapers were a new invention, business tycoons in Pittsburgh and across the country invested in this new form of high tech to proclaim their power. Learn about some key
Back when skyscrapers were a new invention, business tycoons in Pittsburgh and across the country invested in this new form of high tech to proclaim their power. Learn about some key Pittsburgh buildings with fascinating back stories.
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on July 11, 2020.
Your Storyteller
Mark Houser is a Pittsburgh writer and speaker and author of the new book MultiStories: 55 Antique Skyscrapers & the Business Tycoons Who Built Them. He has traveled across the country and beyond in search of the world’s best landmark tall buildings, and he regularly offers a popular Antique Skyscraper Rooftops & Views tour for DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh. Houser has appeared on NPR, CNN, and FOX and given a TEDx Talk about the history of bridges and life of John Roebling. His website is HouserTalks.com.
When George Washington Almost Lost His Head
One July 4th proved to be a nightmare morning for George Washington. The Virginia soldier was just 22 years old when he inadvertently started what is often called the first
One July 4th proved to be a nightmare morning for George Washington.
The Virginia soldier was just 22 years old when he inadvertently started what is often called the first world war.
The conflict began in what is now called Jumonville Glen in Fayette County.
A few weeks later–on July 4, 1754–Washington was forced to surrender his small army of British and Colonial troops at a hastily built defensive outpost he called Fort Necessity.
Enjoy this story of both sites, as writer Len Barcousky talks about what went wrong 266 years ago in Southwestern Pennsylvania for the man who became father of our country.
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on June 27, 2020.
Your Storyteller
Len Barcousky was a newspaper journalist for 50 years, who retired after almost 30 years as an editor and reporter at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. He is the author of three books about Pittsburgh history drawn from his biweekly Eyewitness column.
Painting Pittsburgh Neighborhoods, by Artist Ron Donoughe
Join DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh for a virtual visit to the studio of artist Ron Donoughe. He has been painting Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania for the last 30 years. His studio
Join DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh for a virtual visit to the studio of artist Ron Donoughe. He has been painting Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania for the last 30 years.
His studio is located in historic Lawrenceville, and features a huge, unvarnished space complete with hundreds of paintings.
Ron is best known for his 90 Pittsburgh Neighborhoods project and book. He painted all 90 neighborhoods alphabetically over 12 months. They have since been acquired by the Heinz History Center.
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on June 20, 2020.
Development of Oakland
Oakland is home to museums, universities, and medical centers, but do you know how it all started? You will learn how Mary Schenley’s land holdings, combined with major philanthropy of
Oakland is home to museums, universities, and medical centers, but do you know how it all started?
You will learn how Mary Schenley’s land holdings, combined with major philanthropy of Carnegie and his colleagues, created this cultural and educational district.
Maps and photographs will illustrate the design of buildings and open spaces that make up the most significant City Beautiful district in America.
The design competitions that guided the planning of Oakland’s major institutions will be also be reviewed.
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on June 13, 2020.
Your Storyteller
Paul J. Tellers is an architect and planner. He was the University Architect at Carnegie Mellon University, the Director of Planning at WTW Architects, and a Project Manager for the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.
Finding Solitude: George Westinghouse
What happened to the mansion called Solitude – the mysterious Pittsburgh home of one of the world’s greatest inventors and industrialists? Why can’t we visit it today…or can we? Pam Gianni
What happened to the mansion called Solitude – the mysterious Pittsburgh home of one of the world’s greatest inventors and industrialists? Why can’t we visit it today…or can we?
Pam Gianni uncovers the history of the George Westinghouse mansion in Point Breeze called Solitude.
Peek inside the underground tunnels, and re-live the fiery explosion on Solitude’s front lawn that led to one of Westinghouse’s greatest inventions.
Presentation includes photos that help to tell the story of George Westinghouse, and his home.
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on June 6, 2020.
Your Storyteller
Pamela Gianni, MD is a native Pittsburgher and second generation Italo-American, who loves all things Pittsburgh. She joined DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh as a volunteer tour curator, and now virtual storyteller, in 2019. In her day job, she’s a Medical Consultant to the Social Security Administration.
Pittsburgh’s Lost Chinatown
In the early 1900s, Pittsburgh’s Chinatown was thriving. With more than 20 restaurants, bakeries, import shops, and food markets, it was a lively center for commerce. Its temple, social halls,
In the early 1900s, Pittsburgh’s Chinatown was thriving. With more than 20 restaurants, bakeries, import shops, and food markets, it was a lively center for commerce.
Its temple, social halls, and merchant societies formed a welcoming home base for Pittsburgh’s 500 Chinese residents. Today, just one restaurant remains. This story reveals why, how, and when Chinatown vanished from the Pittsburgh landscape.
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on February 8, 2020.
Your Storyteller
Pamela Gianni, MD is a native Pittsburgher and second generation Italo-American, who loves all things Pittsburgh. She joined DOORS OPEN Pittsburgh as a volunteer tour curator, and now virtual storyteller, in 2019. In her day job, she’s a Medical Consultant to the Social Security Administration.
Behind the Stage Doors: If These Walls Could Talk
Go inside Pittsburgh’s only “juke joint” and meet Moondog’s owner, Ronnie Esser. Moondog’s is one of the region’s most significant stages for Blues music over the last 30 years, consistently
Go inside Pittsburgh’s only “juke joint” and meet Moondog’s owner, Ronnie Esser. Moondog’s is one of the region’s most significant stages for Blues music over the last 30 years, consistently featuring top Blues artists like Kip London, who will also perform for you!
When you register on Patreon through the button below, you gain access to all of our Virtual Storytelling On-Demand recordings for $10 per month. Cancel at any time.
This story was recorded on January 4, 2020.