Westinghouse Park

Historic Legacy

Westinghouse Park is a 10.2-acre municipal park located in Pittsburgh's East End neighborhood of Point Breeze North. The park occupies the former estate of George Westinghouse, an American entrepreneur and engineer, and his wife Marguerite. From 1871 to 1914, this land was the site of their mansion known as "Solitude."

The park is defined by Thomas Boulevard on the south, the busway/railroad tracks on the north, Murtland Street on the west, and Lang Avenue on the east.

Natural Features

The park features broad lawns and mature trees, many of which date back to the original Westinghouse estate. Over 30 different species of mostly native trees can be found throughout the park.

Innovation Ground

Westinghouse Park has a rich history connected to George Westinghouse's innovations. In 1884, Westinghouse discovered a significant pocket of natural gas on the property, leading to the drilling of several wells.

The site also housed Westinghouse's private laboratory, where he developed residential electric lighting technology and methods to control and transmit natural gas.

Historical Significance

In 2021, Westinghouse Park was determined eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places due to its potential to yield important information about George Westinghouse and his contributions to national, state, and local history.

A 220-foot-long underground tunnel that once connected Westinghouse's home to his private laboratory remains intact beneath the park.

Community Space

Today, the park serves as a community gathering space and recreational area for residents of Point Breeze North and surrounding neighborhoods.

While some of its facilities are outdated, efforts are underway to develop a master plan for improving the park's amenities and celebrating its historical significance.