Embedded Files
HISTORIC SITES DRIVING/WALKING TOUR of DONORA
This page is an attempt to document most of the historic buildings, homes, signs and sites throughout Donora. There are 1948 Smog, Stan Musial, Ken Griffey, Original Buildings/Homes and General Historical points of interest which when followed will give you a tour of Donora.Â
Portions of the tour can be walked depending on your interest, but it’s recommended that you drive your car and then possibly get out and walk wherever you’d like. The driving tour could take 30-60 minutes, but possibly even longer if you were to get out of your car, walk around and even take a few pictures.
NOTE 1: There are only four traffic lights in town. We are assuming that you’ll arrive in town from the southern end possibly crossing the Stan "The Man" Musial Bridge on McKean Avenue and at the first traffic light at Third Street, McKean turns into a one-way street at Fourth Street to points north. The street below, or to your right, is Meldon Avenue (named after founding fathers Mellon and Donner) and is two-way. The street that parallels McKean above, or to your left, is Thompson Avenue and it too is one-way from north to south. The second traffic light is at McKean Avenue and Sixth Street. The third traffic light is at Sixth Street and Meldon Avenue. And the fourth traffic light is at Eighth Street and Meldon Avenue. You’ll probably travel on all three Avenues at some point during your tour and pass through all four traffic lights.
NOTE 2: If you decide to travel through town on your own, keep in mind that the only streets that go all the way up to the most western points of town are Second Street, Third Street and Sixth Street. Third and Sixth Streets dead-end at Waddell. Second Street turns into Second Street Extension and is the longest street in Donora. The other streets are broken in half or tend to zig-zag which will definitely get you disoriented if you don't pay attention. If you ever get disoriented, you can be assured that travelling back down one of these streets will bring you back to McKean Avenue, crossing over Thompson Avenue, to pick up the tour again. You can also cross over McKean Avenue to get back to Meldon Avenue.
There are three main avenues that travel south to north or north to south through Donora in the downtown section:
There is one main street that travels south to north or north to south through Donora's Industrial Park between the downtown section, the railroad tracks and the river:
There are five main streets that travel east to west or from down in town to up on the hill:
The other streets that travel east to west are interrupted by physical obstacles.
Up on the hill or western part of Donora, there are three main streets that travel south to north or north to south through Donora:
This page is an attempt to document most of the historic buildings, homes, signs and sites throughout Donora. There are 1948 Smog, Stan Musial, Ken Griffey, Original Buildings/Homes and General Historical points of interest which when followed will give you a tour of Donora.Â
Portions of the tour can be walked depending on your interest, but it’s recommended that you drive your car and then possibly get out and walk wherever you’d like. The driving tour could take 30-60 minutes, but possibly even longer if you were to get out of your car, walk around and even take a few pictures.
NOTE 1: There are only four traffic lights in town. We are assuming that you’ll arrive in town from the southern end possibly crossing the Stan "The Man" Musial Bridge on McKean Avenue and at the first traffic light at Third Street, McKean turns into a one-way street at Fourth Street to points north. The street below, or to your right, is Meldon Avenue (named after founding fathers Mellon and Donner) and is two-way. The street that parallels McKean above, or to your left, is Thompson Avenue and it too is one-way from north to south. The second traffic light is at McKean Avenue and Sixth Street. The third traffic light is at Sixth Street and Meldon Avenue. And the fourth traffic light is at Eighth Street and Meldon Avenue. You’ll probably travel on all three Avenues at some point during your tour and pass through all four traffic lights.
NOTE 2: If you decide to travel through town on your own, keep in mind that the only streets that go all the way up to the most western points of town are Second Street, Third Street and Sixth Street. Third and Sixth Streets dead-end at Waddell. Second Street turns into Second Street Extension and is the longest street in Donora. The other streets are broken in half or tend to zig-zag which will definitely get you disoriented if you don't pay attention. If you ever get disoriented, you can be assured that travelling back down one of these streets will bring you back to McKean Avenue, crossing over Thompson Avenue, to pick up the tour again. You can also cross over McKean Avenue to get back to Meldon Avenue.
There are three main avenues that travel south to north or north to south through Donora in the downtown section:
- McKean Avenue - south to north.
- Meldon Avenue - south to north or north to south.
- Thompson Avenue - north to south.
There is one main street that travels south to north or north to south through Donora's Industrial Park between the downtown section, the railroad tracks and the river:
- Galiffa Drive to Washington Street through the Industrial Park along the river - north to south or south to north.
There are five main streets that travel east to west or from down in town to up on the hill:
- Chestnut Street
- Walnut Street
- Second Street
- Third Street
- Sixth Street
The other streets that travel east to west are interrupted by physical obstacles.
Up on the hill or western part of Donora, there are three main streets that travel south to north or north to south through Donora:
- Allen Avenue to McCrea Avenue to Modisette Avenue.
- Castner Avenue to McCrea Avenue to Modisette Avenue.
- Waddell Avenue to Second Street. Waddell merges into First Street.
Most of the historic sites listed below are General History to Donora, while others may also be specific to Stan Musial, Ken Griffey, 1948 Smog, Ghost Signs or Original Buildings and are denoted as follows:     (SM) = Stan "The Man" Musial     (KG) = Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr.     (48) = 1948 Smog     (GS) = Ghost Signs, bronze plaques, cornerstones, stone signs     (OB) = Original Building or structure from Donora's inception in 1901 or 1902     (GH) = General Donora History
If you want to just concentrate on Stan Musial sites, you can just follow along and see all the sites denoted with (SM).
If you want to just concentrate on Ken Griffey sites, you can just follow along and see all the sites denoted with (KG).
If you want to just concentrate on 1948 Smog sites, you can just follow along and see all the sites denoted with (48).
If you want to just concentrate on Ghost Signs sites, you can just follow along and see all the sites denoted with (GS).
If you want to just concentrate on Original Building sites for buildings built at the start of Donora in 1901 and 1902, you can just follow along and see all the sites denoted with (OB).
The street addresses are also provided and denoted with (GPS) to either keep you on track or return you to where you left off in case you want to venture off course or if you are someplace in particular but can't seem to find it.
If you want to just concentrate on Stan Musial sites, you can just follow along and see all the sites denoted with (SM).
If you want to just concentrate on Ken Griffey sites, you can just follow along and see all the sites denoted with (KG).
If you want to just concentrate on 1948 Smog sites, you can just follow along and see all the sites denoted with (48).
If you want to just concentrate on Ghost Signs sites, you can just follow along and see all the sites denoted with (GS).
If you want to just concentrate on Original Building sites for buildings built at the start of Donora in 1901 and 1902, you can just follow along and see all the sites denoted with (OB).
The street addresses are also provided and denoted with (GPS) to either keep you on track or return you to where you left off in case you want to venture off course or if you are someplace in particular but can't seem to find it.
How old is this building and what business was there?
An attempt was made to date all sites either by using a building cornerstone, a building facade stone near the roof or historic documents. When none of these existed, we used Sanborn Insurance maps from 1902, 1909, 1914, 1921 and 1929 to ballpark when the building was built. Links to these Sanborn Insurance maps can be found on our Links page. The Sanborn Insurance maps also gave us a clue on the type of business that was at a particular location.
To try to get more specific on the name of business that was at each location, anniversary booklets, yearbooks and advertising items were used. Donora businesses often sponsored anniversary booklets by advertising in them. These were valuable as long as they listed their address at the time. This part is by no means complete.
An attempt was made to date all sites either by using a building cornerstone, a building facade stone near the roof or historic documents. When none of these existed, we used Sanborn Insurance maps from 1902, 1909, 1914, 1921 and 1929 to ballpark when the building was built. Links to these Sanborn Insurance maps can be found on our Links page. The Sanborn Insurance maps also gave us a clue on the type of business that was at a particular location.
To try to get more specific on the name of business that was at each location, anniversary booklets, yearbooks and advertising items were used. Donora businesses often sponsored anniversary booklets by advertising in them. These were valuable as long as they listed their address at the time. This part is by no means complete.
Let’s get started…
Getting to Donora - We assume you’ll be driving to Donora via I-70 at the Belle Vernon exit 43 (by Walmart and Denny’s), or Route 51 to Route 906 somehow, or possibly by Route 837. Follow the Donora signs down the Vance DeiCas Hwy (if coming from I-70 or Route 906) and over the Monongahela River using the Stan “The Man” Musial Bridge and 837N. We’ll assume all tours will start at the south end of Donora at the Musial Bridge.
Getting to Donora - We assume you’ll be driving to Donora via I-70 at the Belle Vernon exit 43 (by Walmart and Denny’s), or Route 51 to Route 906 somehow, or possibly by Route 837. Follow the Donora signs down the Vance DeiCas Hwy (if coming from I-70 or Route 906) and over the Monongahela River using the Stan “The Man” Musial Bridge and 837N. We’ll assume all tours will start at the south end of Donora at the Musial Bridge.
(SM)(GH) Stan “The Man” Musial Bridge – Ground was broken in 1968 and the bridge was built in 1972 and previously called the Donora-Monessen Bridge. On May 4, 2012, this bridge was ceremoniously renamed after Donora native and St. Louis Cardinal baseball great Stan “The Man” Musial, unfortunately a day after wife and Donora native Lillian Labash Musial passed away. The bridge spans over the Monongahela River linking Donora to Monessen and Rostraver Township. (GPS: n/a)
(GH) Monongahela River – Locals call this river the “Mon.” This a northern flowing river that joins the Allegheny River in Pittsburgh to form the Ohio River, hence one of the three rivers. It’s likely that men such as George Washington, Meriwether Lewis of Lewis and Clark fame, and troops during the French and Indian War and the Whiskey Rebellion ventured down the “Mon,” past what is now Donora, from the National Pike (modern day Route 40) at Brownsville on their way to places such as Monongahela City, Elizabeth, Pittsburgh and points west. Back then our town was called West Columbia. The Monongahela River is part of the Monongahela Valley or "Mon Valley." (GPS: n/a)
(GH) Monessen - Looking south on the Mon over the Musial Bridge, the town on the other side of the Mon River and south of Donora is Monessen. In 1897, William Donner founded the National Tin Plate Company and began building its mill, thus becoming Monessen's first employer. Sales of lots began in 1897 and Monessen became a borough in 1898. Shortly after, the Pittsburgh Steel Company built a steel mill that would later be renamed to Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel. In 1899, William Donner would partner with brothers Andrew and Richard Mellon, and Henry Clay Frick as part of the Union Improvement Company that would cross the river over to West Columbia and establish the Union Steel Company in 1900 and our town of Donora in 1901. (GPS: n/a)
(SM)(GH) Monessen's Page Park - Page Park was a baseball field built for Monessen's Page Wire Mill. In 2021, it was recognized by Major League Baseball with a plaque where Negro League and Homestead Grays great Josh Gibson hit the second-longest home run of his career there in 1938. The alley that would have led to a tunnel underneath a set of railroad tracks that led to the Page Wire Mill and Page Park was renamed Josh Gibson Way. What isn't recognized is that Page Park is where Donora high schooler, Stan Musial, got his tryout in 1937 for a St. Louis Cardinals Class D minor league team who used the field for their games. The ballpark is no longer there, and the tunnel is sealed shut and doesn't go under the railroad tracks. (GPS: to the right of Bianchi Monuments at 173 Donner Avenue)
NOTE 3: As you cross the Stan Musial bridge over the Mon River, which is due west, to the right is north toward Monongahela, Elizabeth and Pittsburgh, and to the left is south to Monessen, Charleroi, Brownsville and Route 40.
(GH) Route 837 sign - As you cross the Stan “The Man” Musial Bridge over the Mon River, you'll start seeing Route 837 North signs. Make a right and you are on 837N or McKean Avenue. (GPS: n/a)
(GH)(SM) Donora Home of Champions sign - As you cross the Stan “The Man” Musial Bridge over the Mon River, you are greeted by a "Welcome to DONORA - THE HOME OF CHAMPIONS - Next to yours the best town in the USA" sign. The "Home of Champions" slogan we think was adopted in the 1940s when Donora's Stan Musial was winning World Series titles with the St. Louis Cardinals and Donora High School was fielding some of the very best football teams ever in the state of Pennsylvania. Make a right and you are on 837N or McKean Avenue. (GPS: Route 837 / McKean Avenue)
McKEAN AVENUE - Start
When you cross the Musial Bridge, you'll be heading north on Route 837 on McKean Avenue. McKean is the main street through Donora. The very first street on the left is Chestnut Street.
When you cross the Musial Bridge, you'll be heading north on Route 837 on McKean Avenue. McKean is the main street through Donora. The very first street on the left is Chestnut Street.
(GH) Cement City - Pennsylvania Historic Marker – Directly across Chestnut Street and to the left of the Donora Veteran’s Memorial, you can see the Pennsylvania Historic and Museum Commission marker dedicated for the 80th anniversary in 1997 of our National Historic District – Cement City. Inquire with the Historical Society about our Cement City Home and Walking Tours usually held in the fall. (GPS: to the left - McKean Avenue and Chestnut Street - to the LEFT)
(48) 1948 Smog Memorial Stone – Next to the Cement City Historic Marker and directly across Chestnut Street and to the left of the Donora Veteran’s Memorial, this stone memorial was dedicated for the 60th anniversary of the 1948 Smog in 2008 for 27 recognized victims during the weeklong smog event. Since 2008, more thorough research only identifies 21 victims. (GPS: to the left - McKean Avenue and Chestnut Street - to the LEFT)
(GH)(SM) Donora Veteran’s Memorial - Immediately on the left, between Chestnut Street and Walnut Street, you’ll pass the Donora Veteran’s Memorial that was dedicated November 1, 2003. You can pull into the parking lot off of Walnut Street to take a closer look. Veterans from the Civil War to the Gulf War are recognized on the granite slabs from West Columbia and Donora. Stan Musial’s name appears on the memorial since he was a WWII Navy veteran. (GPS: to the left - McKean Avenue between Chestnut Street and Walnut Street - to the LEFT)
(GH) West Columbia – Across McKean Avenue from the Veteran’s Memorial and looking down toward the Monongahela River and to the left of the Stan Musial Bridge was the site of West Columbia. West Columbia was founded in 1815 and was the village that existed before Donora was founded in 1901. Nothing exists of West Columbia now as it was dismantled in the early 1900s to expand the Steel Mill south on the flood plain, however, we do have photos and artifacts at the Smog Museum from West Columbia. The Steel Mill from this point would consume the entire 3-mile flood plain of the western bank of the Mon River to the northern most end of Donora and conclude with the Zinc Works. Today, companies like RETAL and Apex sit in the footprint of what was once West Columbia. (GPS: n/a - to the RIGHT)
NOTE: If you want to venture off course slightly to see our Cement City National Historic District, the boyhood home of professional boxer Lee Sala, the boyhood neighborhood of Ken Griffey Sr. and the Incinerator, search Chestnut / Walnut Street - Start and follow those directions.
(GH) Link’s Dari Delight - Just after the Veteran’s Memorial on McKean Avenue and on the corner of Walnut Street, you’ll see a small storefront with a long metal railing that was the old Link’s Dari Delight ice cream drive-in built in 1954 by the Hugh "Sonny" Link family of Donora. Since 1988, it's no longer called Link’s or sells ice cream, however, it was featured in a music video by the group called “Donora” for their song I Think I Like You in 2010. The last business at this location was Beer, Butts and Bets but it no long. (GPS: 65 S. McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(SM)(GH) Sam Labash Groceries & Meats Store - This building was built between 1901 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902 or 1909 or 1914 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). Per the Labash family, this building existed before 1921. To the right of the old Link's Dari Delight parking lot, you’ll see a modular home tucked in back. To the right of that, and to the left of a red bricked St. Paul’s church, you’ll see a boarded up, white and light green two-story storefront. This was the old Sam Labash Groceries & Meats store – the home and store owned by Lillian Labash Musial’s parents where Musial worked in the off-season early in his baseball career, even after the 1942 World Series. Lillian was Stan’s Donora High School sweetheart and would eventually be his wife. Sam Labash Groceries & Meats was a United Service Food Store in 1938. In 1929 and 1974, this was Labash Meats & Groceries. This building was razed in 2024 and no longer exists. (GPS: 53 S. McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) St. Paul Baptist Church - To the right of old Labash General Store, on McKean Avenue and Locust Avenue, you’ll see St. Paul Baptist Church. St. Paul Baptist came to be when a woman known only as Mrs. Penn started a mission house in 1916. It grew so quickly, she needed to move into the old Star Theater in Donora, and they took the name Southern Baptist Church. The church welcomed many of the African Americans who left the South during the great migration. Plans to build a new church began in 1918 when property was purchased and plans continued in the 1920s, but construction did not start until 1942. The cornerstone was laid in 1952, and the church was finished and dedicated in 1954 under the stewardship of the Rev. Walter E. McBrayer with the cornerstone bearing his name. A structure was here in 1921 and called the "Colored Baptist Mission" (Sanborn - 1921). (GPS: 49 S. McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) John Mitro Store - This building was built between 1901 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902 or 1909 or 1914 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). In 1921 and 1946 and 1954, this was the John Mitro Meats and Groceries corner grocery store. Prior to 1921, this area of Donora was just getting developed. (GPS: 2 S. McKean Avenue - corner of McKean Avenue and Market Street - to the LEFT)
(GS) John Mitro Store - Stoney's Beer ghost sign - On the left side of the John Mitro Store building, you'll see a ghost sign. When this sign was painted, Stoney's Beer was brewed nine miles away at the Jones Brewing Company in nearby Smithton on the Youghiogheny River. Barely visible today, this sign greeted visitors arriving from the south end of town and encouraged them to Have a Stoney's. Stoney Jones was the founder of the Jones Brewing Company and grandfather of famous film actress Shirley Jones. (GPS: 2 S. McKean Avenue)
(GS) John Mitro Store - Dragon ghost sign - On the front window of the John Mitro Store building you'll see a ghost sign. This isn't really a ghost sign, but a modern tribute to our Donora Dragons. This sign appeared around 2024 when the new building ownership replaced the glass. (GPS: 2 S. McKean Avenue)
NOTE: McKean Avenue and First Street to Second Street
MELDON AVENUE - If you make a right on First Street, you can go down one block to Meldon Avenue. Meldon Avenue starts at First Street and goes north all the way through Donora for fifteen blocks. You may consider staying on McKean Avenue.
(GH) Pech's Brothers Food Market - This building was built after 1929 because it was not here in 1929 (Sanborn - 1929). Since 1939, this was Pech's Brothers Food Market. Pech's was still here in 1951, but the address was listed as 108 McKean Avenue. In the 1970s (1974), this was a United Dairy Farmers Cp-Op milk store. In 1994 and 1996, this was Continental Catering. In 2000, this was also Foxe Computers. In 2000, 2001 and 2009 and 2010, this was Stefan's Barber Shop. It then became Thoughtful Gifts from the Heart. In 1935, Joseph Pech had a store at 207 First Street. Pech Brothers was a United Service Food Store. The trolley dead ended at First Street and McKean Avenue. (GPS: 110 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH)(OB) 152 McKean Avenue Building - This building was built between 1901 and 1902 because it was here in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902). In 1946, this was Dominic Muia Beer, Wine and Liquor. In 1954, this was the Silver Star Cafe (Francis Muia). (GPS: 152 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Friedlander's Dry Goods - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1926 and 1951 and 1974, this was Nathan Friedlander Dry Goods or Friedlander's Clothing Store. The building was built by Nathan and Katheryn "Kate" Friedlander who came from New York after immigrating from Czechoslovakia and Hungary respectfully as Jewish immigrants. It's not known when the Friedlanders came to Donora, but they probably stayed with younger brother Benny Friedlander in his building at 767 McKean Avenue until this building was finished. Friedlander family members surmise that the building was built in 1915 or 1916 because their second son, Julius, was born in this building in 1916. The Friedlanders lived in one of the apartments upstairs. They started by selling only yards of cloth to make clothing but at some point, they switched over to selling clothing and shoes. During the depression, they exchanged their merchandise with farmers in the vicinity who came to Donora to shop and to exchange their produce for clothes and shoes. Nathan died in 1949 possibly from the effects of Donora's smog. Kate Friedlander continued to operate the clothing store until her death in 1970 after 55 years or so in business. This building is currently an apartment building. (GPS: 201 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Chambon's Garage - This building was built after 1921 but before 1929 because it was not here in 1921 but was in 1929 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1923 and 1926, 211 McKean Avenue was called Chambon's Garage that sold Oldsmobile cars and trucks. In 1926, 211 McKean Avenue was Shambaugh's garage. In 1927 and 1929 and 1938, 211 McKean Avenue was Chambon's Garage and Transfer who specialized in moving. In 1935, 209 McKean Avenue was Paul's Service Station. It was George's Service Garage and Gulf Station. In 1942 and 1951, 211 McKean Avenue was August Z. Chamban's Moving & Storage. In 1951 and 1974, 211 McKean Avenue was Lewis Service Station. (GPS: 209 and 211 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH)(OB) 240 McKean Avenue store - Built in 1901, it's one of Donora's original buildings (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was a poultry store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was a grocery warehouse (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a barber shop (Sanborn - 1921). In 1974, this was the St. Nicholas G.C.S.B. & B. Society. (GPS: 240 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH)(OB) Greco's Dairy Bar - Built in 1901, it's one of Donora's original buildings (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was vacant probably because it was just built (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a storage building (Sanborn - 1921). In 1946, this was John's Place. In 1951, this was Greco's Dairy Bar. (GPS: 244 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) 263 McKean Avenue building - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn 1902-1909). In 1909, it was a school of some sort (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this building was vacant (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, it was a pool room (Sanborn - 1921). In 1941, this was Diamond Cleaners. (GPS: 263 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Bottling Works - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909, it was a bottling works and grocery store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, it was a bottling works (Sanborn 1914). In 1921, it was a grocery and meat store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1921 and 1938, this was Donora Bottling Works - Smile and Eskimo Pop. In 1954, this was Suncrest Beverage. In 1974, this was Pal Manufacturing Company that made storm windows and doors. (GPS: 270 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
NOTE 4: Continue into town on McKean Avenue and through the first traffic light at Third Street. To the left you’ll see the Thompson Avenue Bridge that carries Thompson Avenue over Third Street.
NOTE: McKean Avenue and Third Street to Fourth Street
(GH) McKean Avenue Grocery Store - This building was built after 1921 because it wasn't here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). The back portion of the building was here in 1929 but not the front portion. This means that the building was built after 1929 (Sanborn - 1929). From 1931 to 1948, this was Staruch Market, owned by John Staruch. In 1938, Staruch Market was a United Service Food Store. In 1951 and 1974, this was the John Krupa - Meats, Groceries and Frozen Foods store. Later, it was converted to a bar and is the current home and bar of Fraternal Order of Eagles - Aerie No. 502. The Eagles have been in Donora since 1903. (GPS: 301 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Genovese Grocery Store / Eagles Bar - This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). This building was a grocery store in 1914 and 1921 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). This building was built in 1910 or 1911. In 1911, this was Joseph Genovese Grocery & Bakery. Joseph Genovese would pass in 1915. In 1926, it was Dimeo Bakery. In 1938 and 1946, this was Genovese Cafe. In 1951 and 1954, this was the Stone Front Cafe (Sam Genovese and Stewart Diess). In 1974, this was the Fraternal Order of Eagles - Aerie No. 502 (blue door). To the left and at the corner of McKean Avenue and Third Street is the current home of the Fraternal Order of Eagles - Aerie No. 502. Back when this building was a grocery store, multiple advertising signs were painted on both the left side and right side of the building that are still visible as ghost signs. (GPS: 315 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GS) McKean Avenue Grocery Store / Eagles Bar - Joseph ghost sign - On the left-hand side of the building are at least four ghost signs. The one on the upper far right advertises JOSEPH something, we assume Joseph Hornes Department Store in downtown Pittsburgh. (GPS: 315 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GS) McKean Avenue Grocery Store / Eagles Bar - Kaufmann's ghost sign - On the left-hand side of the building are at least four ghost signs. The one on the lower far right advertises KAUFMANN'S, we assume Kaufmann's Department Store in downtown Pittsburgh. (GPS: 315 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GS) McKean Avenue Grocery Store / Eagles Bar - other ghost signs - On the left-hand side of the building are at least two more ghost signs in the middle of the building. The top sign is faded and mostly unreadable but may have advertised for PIANOS. The bottom sign between the door and the window appears to have been painted before the doorway was cut into the building. We believe this MITHFIELD & D sign was in gold letters and may have said SMITHFIELD & DIAMOND, the corner where the Kaufmann's Department Store was located in downtown Pittsburgh in the early 1900s. Diamond Street was later renamed to Forbes Avenue. (GPS: 315 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GS) McKean Avenue Grocery Store / Eagles Bar - Genovese ghost sign - On the right-hand side of the building is one more ghost sign that is faded but barely readable. We believe it says GENOVESE after the business Joseph Genovese Grocery & Bakery. Underneath, we believe it says GOLD MEDAL for Gold Medal Flour. Underneath that we believe it says MERCHANDISE that may have been painted over the word FLOUR at some point. This is an example of a ghost sign over another ghost sign with no indication of which sign came first. (GPS: 315 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
NOTE: The concentrated historic business district starts at McKean Avenue at Fourth Street and stretches to Ninth Street.
NOTE: McKean Avenue at Fourth Street is one way heading north.
NOTE: McKean Avenue at Fourth Street is one way heading north.
NOTE: McKean Avenue and Fourth Street to Fifth Street
(GH) Sons of Italy Building - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, it was a restaurant (Sanborn - 1921). In 1926 and 1927, 402 McKean was Ryland Printing Company. In 1938, 402 McKean Avenue was Allridges Flower Shop. At some point it was a Kroger's Grocery Store. In 1951, this was the Order Sons of Italy in America No. 1676. The Ladies Lodge No. 1819 was organized on August 1, 1937. In 1974 and 1996, this was still the Sons of Italy. (GPS: 400 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) DSRR CIO Union Hall – This building was built after 1921 and 1929 since it was not here in 1921 or 1929 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). This red brick building was the American Steel & Wire's Donora Southern Railroad (DSRR) CIO (Congress of Industrial Organizations) Union Local #1757 and #1758 – Local Industrial Union #1439, United Railroad Workers union hall. It’s our understanding that the other mill unions may have met here as well. Later, it was a faith-based church and youth center. (GPS: 410 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GS) DSRR CIO Union Hall - Donora Southern Railroad ghost sign – This building that housed the American Steel & Wire's Donora Southern Railroad (DSRR) CIO (Congress of Industrial Organizations) Union has an entrance sidewalk at the front doors. This isn't really a ghost sign, but you can see the Donora Southern Railroad horseshoe logo in terrazzo marble along with the street address. (GPS: 410 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Donora Bowling Alleys - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). We think this building was actually built in 1928 or 1929. In 1929, this was The Murray-Glenn Alleys and the Grand Opening was in 1929. In 1943 and 1951 and 1954, this building was a duckpin bowling alley called Donora Bowling Alleys. Most recently, it was Sonya's Day Care Center. (GPS: 415 and 419 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GS) Donora Bowling Alleys - Ten Pin Ghost Sign - This isn't really a ghost sign but a unique design in the brick facade of the original Donora Bowling Alleys building that looks like the top view of ten pins in raised bricks ready to be struck by a bowling ball. You can see two ten-pin triangular designs high on the brick facade on the far left and far right. (GPS: 415 and 419 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
NOTE 5: In the empty lot directly across the street from the Donora Bowling Alleys was the site of the Princess Theater, one of four theaters on McKean Avenue between Fourth Street and Eighth Street.
(GH) Hardware Store building - This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1909, it had a bowling alley and hardware store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, it had a pool room and hardware store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, it had a pool room, barber and hardware store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1911, 421 McKean Avenue was E. H. Darsie hardware, cutlery, tools and home furnishings. In 1926, 419 Mckean Avenue was the location of the Liberty Barber Shop. In 1951, 419 McKean Avenue was Williken's Shoe Store. In 1946 and 1951, 421 McKean Avenue was Caprio's Grocery and Restaurant that also sold home-made ice cream. In 1954, 421 McKean Avenue was Donora Taxi Company. In 1974, 419 McKean Avenue was Norvelle's Generation Gap.
When the train station at Eighth Street and Meldon Avenue was razed, the bus station ticket agency was located in Caprio’s Restaurant until 1958 when Caprio's closed. The agency was then moved across McKean Avenue to the former Princess Theatre. (GPS:419 and 421 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
When the train station at Eighth Street and Meldon Avenue was razed, the bus station ticket agency was located in Caprio’s Restaurant until 1958 when Caprio's closed. The agency was then moved across McKean Avenue to the former Princess Theatre. (GPS:419 and 421 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Trolley Turnaround Tracks – It's assumed that these tracks date to 1906 when the trolley was introduced in Donora. The Pittsburgh Railways Company supplied trolley lines all around the Pittsburgh area and extended to points south through the Monongahela Valley and mostly paralleled the Monongahela River all the way down to Roscoe. Often the trolleys would travel right through the center of the towns they would connect. While the trolley line did extend south to Donora, it was only as a spur and dead-ended at First Street on McKean Avenue, three and a half blocks away. The spur started off of the main line in the Black Diamond section of Carroll Township on Route 837 just south of Monongahela and north of Donora, while the main line would travel uninterrupted up Black Diamond Hollow to bypass Donora and connect Monongahela to Charleroi. In Donora, on McKean Avenue between Fourth and Fifth Streets and sitting to the right of the Donora Bowling Alleys and Hardware Store buildings is a set of trolley turnaround tracks embedded in cobble bricks. After the trolley made its way south through Donora and stopping at the end of the spur at First Street, it would have travelled backwards to the turnaround tracks where it could reverse itself before travelling north again on McKean Avenue to Route 837 and other points north. Prior to the Trolley Turnaround Tracks being located here, the very first post office was on this site in a 12' by 20' wooden building. (GPS: to the right of 419 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Trolley Ticket Office and Freight Terminal - This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). On McKean Avenue just to the right of the trolley turnaround tracks, this little one-story red brick building with an angled-corner front door, served as the trolley ticket office and freight terminal, as well as the trolley turnaround. The trolley in Donora ran from 1906 to 1954. In 1906, it just ran from First Street on McKean Avenue to Eleventh Street where the tracks angled to continue on Meldon Avenue to Fifteenth Street on Meldon Avenue. In 1911, it was extended north on Route 837/Meldon Avenue to connect to the Black Diamond section of Carroll Township at Black Diamond Hollow Road to the mainline. (GPS: to the left of 437 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Trolley Wire Hangers - This is an example of the trolley wire hangers used to secure overhead electrical running wires to power the trolley. Some wire remnants are still attached. Since the trolley ran until 1954, these telephone poles and wire hangers predate 1954 and are well over 70-years-old. Other examples exist on McKean Avenue and Seventh Street, McKean Avenue and Tenth Street, and McKean Avenue and Eleventh Street. (GPS: at the corner of 437, 439 and 443 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH)(48)(OB) Thomas - Frazier Building - Original Post Office and Corner Drugstore - The building to the right of the trolley ticket office at 439 McKean Avenue served many purposes and was the original post office location in Donora until 1929. The building had three storefronts on McKean Avenue at 437 McKean Avenue on the left, 439 McKean Avenue in the middle and 443 McKean Avenue on the right, and two additional storefronts on Fifth Street.Â
Built in 1901, it's one of Donora's original buildings (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, 437 McKean Avenue was a hardware store, 439 McKean Avenue was a drugstore and 443 McKean Avenue was a post office (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, 437 McKean Avenue was a grocery store, 439 McKean Avenue was a post office, and an insurance office and 443 McKean Avenue was a barber shop, and 207 Fifth Street was a wallpaper store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, 437 McKean Avenue was vacant, 439 McKean Avenue was a post office and 443 McKean Avenue was a drug store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, 437 and 439 McKean Avenue was a post office and 443 McKean Avenue was a drug store, and 207 Fifth Street was a tailor, and 209 Fifth Street was an electrical store (Sanborn - 1921).Â
In 1917, this building was gutted by a fire, including the roof, and was totally rebuilt from the inside retaining most of the exterior walls in the process. The Donora Historical Society has photos of the aftermath. The Corner Drug Store eventually moved from across from McKean Avenue into this building by 1921 and was later called Herk's Corner Drug Store as late as 1951. On the second floor were professional offices for George O. Frazier, Attorney at Law and Ralph Waldemar Koehler, M.D. Dr. Koehler was one of the doctors who helped patients during the 1948 Smog. Later, 437 McKean Avenue was Sun-Wall Paper and Paints. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000 and currently, 439 McKean Avenue was and is Mon Valley Ceramic Supply. In 1976, 443 McKean Avenue was J&B Import Company - Wholesale Distributers in Venetian Glass, Ceramics & Spanish Mediterranean owned by Morris and Allen Ackerman. In 1951, 439 McKean Avenue was the State Liquor Store. In 1963, 207 Seventh Street was Donora Real Estate Company. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, 443 McKean Avenue was Kibler's TV Services & VCR. (GPS: 437, 439 and 443 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
Built in 1901, it's one of Donora's original buildings (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, 437 McKean Avenue was a hardware store, 439 McKean Avenue was a drugstore and 443 McKean Avenue was a post office (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, 437 McKean Avenue was a grocery store, 439 McKean Avenue was a post office, and an insurance office and 443 McKean Avenue was a barber shop, and 207 Fifth Street was a wallpaper store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, 437 McKean Avenue was vacant, 439 McKean Avenue was a post office and 443 McKean Avenue was a drug store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, 437 and 439 McKean Avenue was a post office and 443 McKean Avenue was a drug store, and 207 Fifth Street was a tailor, and 209 Fifth Street was an electrical store (Sanborn - 1921).Â
In 1917, this building was gutted by a fire, including the roof, and was totally rebuilt from the inside retaining most of the exterior walls in the process. The Donora Historical Society has photos of the aftermath. The Corner Drug Store eventually moved from across from McKean Avenue into this building by 1921 and was later called Herk's Corner Drug Store as late as 1951. On the second floor were professional offices for George O. Frazier, Attorney at Law and Ralph Waldemar Koehler, M.D. Dr. Koehler was one of the doctors who helped patients during the 1948 Smog. Later, 437 McKean Avenue was Sun-Wall Paper and Paints. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000 and currently, 439 McKean Avenue was and is Mon Valley Ceramic Supply. In 1976, 443 McKean Avenue was J&B Import Company - Wholesale Distributers in Venetian Glass, Ceramics & Spanish Mediterranean owned by Morris and Allen Ackerman. In 1951, 439 McKean Avenue was the State Liquor Store. In 1963, 207 Seventh Street was Donora Real Estate Company. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, 443 McKean Avenue was Kibler's TV Services & VCR. (GPS: 437, 439 and 443 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH)(48)(OB) Thomas - Frazier Building - Original Post Office and Corner Drugstore - Built, in 1901, it's one of Donora's original buildings (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, 437 McKean Avenue was a hardware store (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, 437 McKean Avenue was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, 437 McKean Avenue was vacant (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, 437 and 439 McKean Avenue was a post office (Sanborn - 1921). On the second floor were professional offices for George O. Frazier, Attorney at Law and Ralph Waldemar Koehler, M.D. Dr. Koehler was one of the doctors who helped patients during the 1948 Smog. Later, 437 McKean Avenue was Sun-Wall Paper and Paints. In 1974, on the second floor at 205 Fifth Street was attorney A.J. DeMedio. In 1974, on the second floor was attorney George O. Frazier. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, 437 McKean Avenue was and still is Mon Valley Ceramic Supply. (GPS: 437 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH)(OB) Thomas - Frazier Building - Original Post Office and Corner Drugstore - Built in 1901 and designed by architect Robert Barnhart of Charleroi, it's one of Donora's original buildings (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, 439 McKean Avenue was a drugstore and 443 McKean Avenue was a post office (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, 439 McKean Avenue was a post office, and an insurance office and 443 McKean Avenue was a barber shop (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, 439 McKean Avenue was a post office and 443 McKean Avenue was a drug store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, 437 and 439 McKean Avenue was a post office and 443 McKean Avenue was a drug store (Sanborn - 1921). The Corner Drug Store eventually moved across from McKean Avenue into this building by 1921 and was later called Herk's Corner Drug Store as late as 1946 and 1951 and 1963. In 1976, 443 McKean Avenue was J&B Import Company - Wholesale Distributers in Venetian Glass, Ceramics & Spanish Mediterranean owned by Morris and Allen Ackerman. In 1951, 439 McKean Avenue was the State Liquor Store. In 1974 and 1976, 443 McKean Avenue was J & B Import. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, 443 McKean Avenue was Kibler's TV Services & VCR. (GPS: 439 and 443 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GS)(OB) Thomas - Frazier Building ghost sign - This isn't a true ghost sign but a very old bronze plaque that identifies the original Post Office building as the Thomas-Frazier Building. On the second floor were professional offices for George O. Frazier, Attorney at Law and Ralph W. Koehler, M.D. Dr. Koehler was one of the doctors who helped patients during the 1948 Smog. The plaque hangs to the right of the middle door that leads up to stairs to the second floor. Dr. Koehler died in 1967. George O. Frazier graduated from Donora High School around 1915. In 1914, Frazier played on the football team and was once considered the greatest Donora halfback. We assume the bronze plaque dates to the 1930s or 1940s. (GPS: 437 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH)(OB) Thomas - Frazier Building - Fifth Street side - Built, in 1901, it's one of Donora's original buildings (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, 207 Fifth Street was a boots and shoes store, and 209 Fifth Street was a millinery (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, 207 Fifth Street was a clothier store, and 209 Fifth Street was a wallpaper store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1909, 207 Fifth Street was a clothier store, and 209 Fifth Street was also a clothier store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, 207 Fifth Street was a tailor, and 209 Fifth Street was an electrical store (Sanborn - 1921). When built in 1901, the storefronts on the Fifth Street side housed the Clendaniel's Shoe Store and Wallace & Pruitt's Grocery. In 1910 and in 1926, 207 Fifth Street was the Donora Real Estate Company, a company founded in 1900 to sell the first lots in Donora on September 11, 1901. In 1921, 209 Fifth Street was R.G. Fisher Electric Company. In 1926 and 1928, the storefront on the right at 209 Fifth Street was Donora Electric for house wiring, motor repairing and battery service and charging. In 1929, 209 Fifth Street was the Water Company. In 1951, 207 Fifth Street was Patsy Muoio Barber Shop. Service Rent All started here in 1973 and was here in 1976. In 1974, this was Donora Real Estate Company and McCans Real Estate & Insurance. (GPS: 207 and 209 Fifth Street)
(GH) Spragg Building - First Donora Theatre - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). Two storefronts exist on the front of the building. In 1909 and 1914 and 1921, electric theater at 440 McKean Avenue, hardware store at 444 McKean Avenue (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914 and 1921). This building once housed an electric theater at 440 McKean Avenue and a hardware store at 444 McKean Avenue (Sanborn - 1909, 1914 and 1921). (GPS: 440, 442 and 444 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Spragg Building - Star Theatre - This building once housed an electric theater at 440 McKean Avenue (Sanborn - 1909, 1914 and 1921). The Star Theatre was Donora's first theater location that probably started showing Magic Lantern Slides and then motion pictures and did so until at least 1921 and 1926. In 1923, it was known as the Home of the Pipe Organ. In 1923 and 1924, on the second floor was Cowan's Studio - H.H. Cannon photographer. In 1941, 440 McKean Avenue was Spragg Hardware. In 1946, 1951 and 1958 and 1976, the storefront at 440 McKean Avenue was the Donora Hardware & Electric Company. In 1970 and 1976, 440 McKean Avenue was Valley Home Improvements Company owned by Carmen Piccione. In 1994, 440 McKean Avenue was Helping Hand Store. In 1996, 440 McKean Avenue was Washington City Mission. (GPS: 440 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Spragg Building - hardware store - This building once housed a hardware store at 444 McKean Avenue (Sanborn - 1909, 1914 and 1921). In 1921 and 1929, 444 McKean Avenue was Vernon & Hornbake Hardware - the Hardest Hardware in Donora, and Spalding sporting goods and electrical appliances. (GPS: 444 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
NOTE 6: To the right of the building at 440, 442 and 444 McKean Avenue, is an empty lot that was the site of one of Donora's four theaters: the Princess Theater. In 1921, it was called the Princess (Sanborn - 1921). The Princess Theater would be built next door to the right between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not here in 1909. This theater showed motion pictures and live stage shows (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). The Princess Theater had 425 seats. It closed as a theater in 1955.
In 1958, it was converted into a bus station where part of the lobby was used as a cab stand - bus station. It’s where you got the bus to Pittsburgh. The other part of the lobby was a driveway going into what used to be the auditorium. The proscenium or arch separating the stage from the auditorium in front of the curtain was still there with some of the stage curtains still hanging. There were also some theatre seats still attached to the floor. It’s main use at that time was storage of taxi cabs and school buses. In 1974, this was Rebel Manufacturing Company that made truck caps and trailers. (GPS: 424 McKean Avenue)
In 1958, it was converted into a bus station where part of the lobby was used as a cab stand - bus station. It’s where you got the bus to Pittsburgh. The other part of the lobby was a driveway going into what used to be the auditorium. The proscenium or arch separating the stage from the auditorium in front of the curtain was still there with some of the stage curtains still hanging. There were also some theatre seats still attached to the floor. It’s main use at that time was storage of taxi cabs and school buses. In 1974, this was Rebel Manufacturing Company that made truck caps and trailers. (GPS: 424 McKean Avenue)
(GH)(OB) Ostoffice Building - Original Corner Drugstore - Built between 1901 and 1902, this building is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). This building was the original location of The Corner Drugstore built in 1901. In 1902 and 1909, it was a drugstore (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1914, it was a candy store/confectionary (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, it was a florist and a plumbing store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1918, it was The Corner Drug Store. By 1921 and 1926, it was the Donora Flower and Acessory Shop and auto accessories, and a plumbing store. The Corner Drugstore moved across the street. In 1946, 1951 and 1954, this was Crafton's Home Appliances and Records. (GPS: 446 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
NOTE: McKean Avenue and Fifth Street to Sixth Street
(GH)(OB) Bank of Donora Building – This building was being built in 1902 and is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). This is one of three original bank buildings in Donora, two of which were established in 1901 with their buildings built in 1902 or 1903. The building had three storefronts on McKean Avenue with out-of-order addresses at 509 McKean Avenue on the left, 503 McKean Avenue in the middle and 505 McKean Avenue on the right, and two additional storefronts on Fifth Street. In 1909, it was a bank on the left at 509 McKean Avenue, men's clothing store in the middle at 503 McKean Avenue, and a dry goods store on the right at 505 McKean Avenue (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914 and 1921, it was a bank on the left at 509 McKean Avenue, a 5c & 10c store in the middle and right at 503 and 505 McKean Avenue (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). When built, 505 McKean Avenue was Laing's Dry Goods Store before Laing built his own building across McKean Avenue. In 1926, 503 and 505 McKean Avenue was F. W. Woolworth Company 5 and 10c store. Early on, other McKean Avenue tenants included the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church and Roth's Market.
It was originally called the Bank of Donora until it closed in 1930 due to the Great Depression. The Bank of Donora merged with the First National Bank and called the Union National Bank of Donora and operated at Sixth and McKean Avenue from 1932 to 1948. In 1948, The Union National Bank of Donora was acquired by Mellon Bank and located back to Fifth Street and McKean Avenue as Mellon Bank. Mellon Bank eventually became Citizens Bank. A renovation occurred in 1964. In 1974 and 1996, 501 (509) McKean Avenue was Mellon Bank. This building is no longer a bank closing in 2013. Some of Donora’s founders were the Mellon brothers: Andrew and Richard. During Donora’s heyday, there was more money going through this Mellon Bank branch than any other branch in the Mellon Banking system. Photographer Bruce Dreisbach and his wife Lulu lived in one of nine apartments upstairs from the bank. The Historical Society’s Dreisbach glass plate negative collection was found here after Lulu’s passing. These negatives, when converted to photos, enable the Historical Society to tell the many stories about Donora. This building still has newly remodeled apartments upstairs.Â
The McKean Avenue level storefronts are not currently used. In 1994, 208 Fifth Street was Dr. Ferretti, DDS. In 2000, 208 Fifth Street was McCue Agency, Insurance and Real Estate. (GPS: 501 (509) and 503 and 505 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
It was originally called the Bank of Donora until it closed in 1930 due to the Great Depression. The Bank of Donora merged with the First National Bank and called the Union National Bank of Donora and operated at Sixth and McKean Avenue from 1932 to 1948. In 1948, The Union National Bank of Donora was acquired by Mellon Bank and located back to Fifth Street and McKean Avenue as Mellon Bank. Mellon Bank eventually became Citizens Bank. A renovation occurred in 1964. In 1974 and 1996, 501 (509) McKean Avenue was Mellon Bank. This building is no longer a bank closing in 2013. Some of Donora’s founders were the Mellon brothers: Andrew and Richard. During Donora’s heyday, there was more money going through this Mellon Bank branch than any other branch in the Mellon Banking system. Photographer Bruce Dreisbach and his wife Lulu lived in one of nine apartments upstairs from the bank. The Historical Society’s Dreisbach glass plate negative collection was found here after Lulu’s passing. These negatives, when converted to photos, enable the Historical Society to tell the many stories about Donora. This building still has newly remodeled apartments upstairs.Â
The McKean Avenue level storefronts are not currently used. In 1994, 208 Fifth Street was Dr. Ferretti, DDS. In 2000, 208 Fifth Street was McCue Agency, Insurance and Real Estate. (GPS: 501 (509) and 503 and 505 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH)(OB) Bank of Donora Building – This building was being built in 1902. In 1909, it was a men's clothing store in the middle at 503 McKean Avenue, and a dry goods store on the right at 505 McKean Avenue (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914 and 1921, it was a 5c & 10c store in the middle and right at 503 and 505 McKean Avenue (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). When built, 505 McKean Avenue was Laing's Dry Goods Store before Laing built his own building across McKean Avenue. In 1926, 503 and 505 McKean Avenue was F. W. Woolworth Company 5 and 10c store. Early on, other tenants of the building included the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church and Roth's Market. (GPS: 503 and 505 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH)(OB) Bank of Donora Building - Fifth Street side – This building was being built in 1902. It had additional storefronts on the Fifth Steet side of the building at 204 Fifth Street on the right and 206 Fifth Street on the left. In 1909, 206 Fifth Street was an ice cream parlor (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, 204 Fifth Street was an insurance office, and 206 Fifth Street was a confectionary (Sanborn 1914). In 1911, Sam's Place was here in one of the basement spaces. In 1921, 204 Fifth Street was an insurance office, and 206 Fifth Street was an office. (Sanborn - 1921). When built, 206 Fifth Street was A. A. Hardesty & Co. Hardware. In 1926, 206 Fifth Street was Automobile Financing Syndicate and also the Donora Improvement Company as operated by Attorney O. G. Frazier. In 1926 and 1951, 206 Fifth Street was the Donora Real Estate Company. In 1994, 208 Fifth Street was Dr. Ferretti, DDS. In 2000, 208 Fifth Street was McCue Agency, Insurance and Real Estate. (GPS: 204 and 206 and 208 Fifth Street - to the LEFT)
(GH)(OB) Bank of Donora Building brick work – This building was being built in 1902. One of the outstanding features of the building's architecture is the long, thin orange brickwork on the Fifth Street side that is worth taking a look at. The fan-shaped brick arches over the first-floor windows, the dentil bricks on the second floor, and the recessed frames above each window on the third floor, all with tight mortar joints are a reflection of the craftsman ship from over 100 years ago. (GPS: Fifth Street and McKean Avenue)
(GH) Laing's Dry Goods - Book's Shoe Store - This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1914 and 1921, this was a dry goods and clothing store (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). It was built as Laing's Dry Goods Store at 504 McKean Avenue. In 1921, 1926, 1928, 1951 and 1954, this was Book's Shoe Store for men's, women's and children's shoes. In 1963 and 1974, this was Ayers Music Center - Pianos, Organs, Band & String Instruments and Piano Tuning. In 1994, this was Kathy's Rainbow Video. In 1996 and 2000, this was Turk's Rainbow Video. Around to the Fifth Street side entrance, is the American Rusin Political and Beneficial Club, a social club for people of Carpatho-Rusyn descent. The address is listed as 502 Meldon Avenue. (GPS: 502 and 504 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Laing's Dry Goods - American Rusin Political and Beneficial Club - In the basement of Laing's Dry Goods Store building on the Fifth Street side. In 1914 and 1921, this was a barber shop (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1941, this was Angelo's Barber Shop. Around to the Fifth Street side entrance is the American Rusin Political and Beneficial Club, a social club for people of Carpatho-Rusyn descent. (GPS: 502 McKean Avenue Rear - to the RIGHT)
(GS) Laing's Dry Goods ghost sign - This isn't a true ghost sign but a very old white, blue and rust hexagon mosaic tile floor that is chipping away that identifies the building as Laing's Dry Goods. This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). It was built as Laing's Dry Goods Store, so we assume the mosaic dates to between 1909 and 1914. (GPS: 504 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH)(OB) Fisher's Esquire Bar / Duke's Cafe - This building was being built in 1902 and we assume was finished in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914 and 1921, this was a pool room and bowling alley (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1946 and 1951, this was Fisher's Cafe then Fisher's Esquire Bar. In 1974 and 1996 and 2000, this was the Esquire Bar. Now it's Duke's Cafe restaurant. (GPS: 506 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Balis Auto Supply building - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1929, this was a drug store (Sanborn - 1929). In 1924 and 1930, this was the Ax Drug Store Druggists and Opticians and Thomas Hoop Dentist. In 1935 and 1938, this was Lewis Pharmacy. In 1943 and 1945, this was Zak's Drug Store. In 1946, this was Barone's Fruit Market. In 1946, this was Zak's Cut Rate Drugs. In 1951, this was Schempp News Company and Zak's Drug Store. Starting in 1957, this was Balis Auto Supply - Sporting Goods and Toys after a fire moved it from 627 McKean Avenue. In 1974 and 1976, this was Balis Auto Supply and Sporting Goods. In 1994, this was E.L. O'Neil Sports, Hobbies, Auto Shop. Currently, it is vacant. (GPS: 510 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
In 1925, 514 McKean was Joseph Sismondo - Imported and Domestic Groceries.
In 1925, 514 McKean was Joseph Sismondo - Imported and Domestic Groceries.
(GH)(OB) Roth's Shoe Store - Odbert Building - Built between 1901 and 1902, the Odbert Building is one of the original structures in Donora. It was here in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was a furniture store (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was vacant (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was a jewelry store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a restaurant (Sanborn - 1921). Ben Roth sold boots and shoes here as Roth's Shoe Store. In 1926, Paul Neel, Esq. had his law office and real estate agency here. In 1926, 516 McKean Avenue was Lee's Lunch restaurant. In 1929, this was Lee's Restaurant. In 1951 and 1974, this was the location of the Donora Water Heater Company started in 1932 by James Stewart and Jerome Boland who specialized in industrial water heaters, one of which is still installed in a Zinc Works warehouse now owned by Dyno Nobel.In 1946, this was Faller Furniture.  In 1951, this was Peter Pan Dry Cleaning. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, this was Vivio's Bake Shoppe. Currently, this is Creations By Kellie Beauty Salon. (GPS: 516 and 518 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Roth Building - This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1914 and 1921, this was a meat market (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). By 1921 it was a meat butcher shop. In 1946 and 1951, this was Roth's Meat Market. In 1974, this was Ronald's Beauty Salon. In 1974, this was Dr. Louis Ferretti, Dentist. In 1994, this was Corner Pocket Billiard and BBQ. (GPS: 521 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Lee's Restaurant / Costas Restaurant / Early Bird Diner - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1951, this was Lee's Restaurant. In 1951, this was Costas' Restaurant? In 1955, Gus Costas moved Costa's Restaurant here from 554 McKean Avenue. Costas' Catering was started in 1966 and eventually moved to 524 McKean Avenue. In 1973 and 1994 and 1995 and 2000, this was Costas Restaurant & Catering Service. Today, this is the location of the Early Bird Diner. (GPS: 522 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
In 1938, 520 McKean Avenue was Miller Taxi Service owned by Harry S. Miller.
In 1938, 520 McKean Avenue was Miller Taxi Service owned by Harry S. Miller.
(GH) Horizon Room / Early Bird Diner annex - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909 and 1914 and 1921, this was a plumbing store (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914 and 1921). In 1911, 524-526 McKean Avenue was W. H. Seibert Plumbing and Heating. In 1926, this was The Leader Dry Goods. In 1929, this was Central Fruit Market. In 1951, this was the Donora Fruit Market. Â In 1974, this was Bedogne Radio and TV. This was also the Donora Welfare Office. In 1976, this was Costa's Restaurant Horizon Room. To the left of this building at 526 and 530 McKean Avenue, was once the site of Allridge's Flower Shop but the building is no longer there. (GPS: 524 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Roth Building / Pugini Bakery - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909, this was a ladies clothing store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was a men's clothing store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a meat market and grocery store (Sanborn - 1921). By 1921 and 1926, it was Donahoe's Grocery and Meat Market. In 1946 and 1951 and 1974, this was Sun Wallpaper & Paint Company. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, this was Pulgini Bakery. (GPS: 527 and 529 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH)(OB) Nutrition Store - Built around 1903, this building is one of the original structures in Donora. This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909 and 1914, this was a men's clothing store (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). By 1921 and 1926, this was a location of a Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company or A&P Grocery Store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1935 and 1936, this was Better Shoes for Less Money that sold Endicott Johnson shoes. In 1946, 1951 and 1976, it was the Select Service Shoppe for better cleaning and tailoring. In 1996 and 2000, this was House of Nutrition. (GPS: 531 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH)(OB) Billiards Parlor - Built between 1901 and 1902, this building is one of the original structures in Donora. In 1902, this building was new and vacant (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was a pool room (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was a barber shop (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1901, this was the first home of the First National Bank while their main building was being built in 1902 at 595 McKean Avenue. In 1924, this was Ikenn's Fruit Market. In 1938, 534 McKean Avenue was Barone's Fruit Market. In 1941, this was Rex Lunch. In 1946, this was Moss Brothers Meats and Groceries, Frozen Foods. In 1951, this was H&G Market. In 1952, 554 McKean Avenue was Quality Market - Meats and Groceries, Frozen Foot, Fresh Fruits and Vegetables. In 1974 and 1996, it was the law office of Attorney Arnold Hirsch. Currently, it's an apartment building. (GPS: 532 and 534 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) white brick building - This building was being built in 1909 so it dates to 1909-1910 (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914 and 1921, this was a dry goods and clothing store (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1926, this was David Daumit Dry Goods. In 1929, this was Chester Studio. In 1941 and 1951, this was Kirby's Shoe Store. In 1974, this was Ken's Book Store. In 1994, this was Magic of Crafts & Flowers. (GPS: 535 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GS) white brick building - Gold Medal Flour ghost sign - On the right side of the building at 535 McKean Avenue and above the roof of the old Colgan Agency at 537 McKean Avenue, are two ghost signs. The one on the right shows "Gold Medal Flour." The one on the left shows something about a "STORE."Â (GPS: to the right of 535 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Colgan Agency - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, this was an insurance office (Sanborn - 1921). It started as the Kenyon-Schooley Insurance Agency. In 1926 and 1930, this was Croner, Colgan and Binns Real Estate and Insurance. In 1933 and 1938, this was Colgan Binns Real Estate and Insurance. In 1946 and 1951, it was the Colgan and Binns Real Estate and Insurance. In 1954, this was Colgan Real Estate and Insurance. In 1964, Rudy Svrcek purchased the agency and called it The Colgan Agency, Inc. In 1974, this was also Tex Video. Inc. In 2022, The Colgan Agency closed. Currently, the building was purchased for storage. (GPS: 537 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH)(OB) Joseph B. Stewart Stationery and News Stand - Built between 1901 and 1902, this building is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was a bookstore (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was news depot (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was a millinery (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a hardware store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1918, this was Cohen's clothing store. J. B. Stewart built Donora's first book and stationery store was first housed in the post office building at 437 McKean Avenue where he sold the Pittsburg (without an 'h') papers, stationery, books, magazines, fine tobaccos, candies and sporting goods while this building was being built. In 1926, this was Harris Brothers Electrical Supply. In 1929, this was E. G. Razzini Groceries, Cigars and Tobacco. In 1941 and 1951, this was Home Appliance Store. It was later Costa's Bar. In 1974, this was the Wigwam Bar. In 1996 and 2000, this was the main office of the Mon Valley Youth and Teen Association, Inc. Currently, it is a wooden crafts store. (GPS: 538 and 540 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) red arch building - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909, this was a men's clothing store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was a music store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a women's clothing store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1921, this was Newberg's apparel for the entire family. In 1923 and 1926, this was Buds Place for men's furnishings, cleaning, pressing, altering, dyeing and moth proofing. In 1929, this was Bill's Cut Price - Working Men's Store for wall paper, paints, men's shoes. In 1941 and 1958, this was Bill's Wallpaper & Paint Store. In 1974, this was Civic Finance Service, Inc. In 1974, this was George Lakerdas Printing. In the 1985, this was Louise's Shop - Something For Everyone. (GPS: 542 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Barone's Building - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). With apartments on the second and third floors, it once had six distinct storefronts at 544 (far right), 546, 548/550, 552/554, 556 and 558 (far left) McKean Avenue. In 1921, 544 McKean Avenue was a boots and shoe store, 546 McKean Avenue was a wallpaper store, 548 McKean Avenue was a jewelry store, 554 McKean Avenue was a restaurant, 556 McKean Avenue was a cigar store and 558 McKean Avenue was a candy store (Sanborn - 1921). Across the back of all storefronts was one large room that contained a pool room and bowling alley (Sanborn - 1921). In 1928, this was where the Palace Bowling Alleys were located that had 3 alleys and 5 pool tables and sold tobacco, soft drinks and cigarettes. Today, there are just five distinct storefronts at 544, 546, 554 (548/550/552/554), 556 and 558 McKean Avenue. (GPS: 544, 546, 554, 556 and 558 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Barone's Building - far right storefront - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, 544 McKean Avenue was a boots and shoe store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1926, 544 McKean Avenue was Lewis & Mayer Electrical Supply. In 1951, 544 McKean Avenue was Machal Radio Service and Namie's Barber Shop. In 1974 and 1985, this was Namie's Barber Shop. (GPS: 544 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Barone's Building - second from the right storefront - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, 546 McKean Avenue was a wallpaper store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1926, 546 McKean Avenue was Donora Wall Paper Supply. In 1929, this was I. (Isadore) Lieber Wall Paper and Paints. In 1946, 546 and 548 McKean Avenue was Lieber's Store - Electrical Appliances Furniture, Wall Paper and Paints. In 1951, 1958, 1964 and 1976, 546 McKean Avenue was Howard's Gift Shop. In 1985, this was the This & That Shoppe. In 1994 and 1996, 546 McKean Avenue was Thorpe's Reconditioned Appliances, Furniture & Repairs. (GPS: 546 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Barone's Building - middle storefront - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, 548 McKean Avenue was a jewelry store and 554 McKean Avenue was a restaurant (Sanborn - 1921). In 1926, 548 McKean Avenue was A. Caliendo - Fashionable Tailor. In 1923 and 1926 and 1929, 554 McKean Avenue was Johnston's Restaurant or Johnston's Lunch. In 1941, Lieber's Wallpaper & Paint Store occupied the storefront at 546-548 McKean Avenue. In 1951 and 1954, Liebers Furniture Store occupied the storefront at 546-548 McKean Avenue. In 1937 and 1938 and 1941 and 1954, Costas's Restaurant moved to 554 McKean Avenue until 1948 when it was destroyed by a fire but rebuilt and would stay here until 1954. In 1954, 552 McKean Avenue was Machala Radio Service & T.V. Service and Namie's Barber Shop. In 1951 and 1958, 554 McKean Avenue was The Trio Shoppe - women's specialty shoppe. After Costas' Restaurant, in 1974, 554 McKean Avenue was the location of the The Daily Herald newspaper. In the 1985, this was Rainbow Video. (GPS: 554 (548/550/552/554) McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Barone's Building - second from the left storefront - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, 556 McKean Avenue was a cigar store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1923, 1926 and 1928, 556 McKean Avenue was the Palace Bowling Alleys that featured three bowling alleys and five pool tables. In 1942, 1951, 1985 and 1994, 556 McKean Avenue was Barone's Shoe Repair Shop. (GPS: 556 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GS) Barone's Shoe Repair Shop ghost sign - second from the left storefront - This is not really a ghost sign but with the white-on-white paint, it may be hard to see. In 1941 and 1951 and 1994, 556 McKean Avenue was Barone's Shoe Repair Shop so the sign dates to the 1940s or 1950s. (GPS: 556 McKean Avenue)
(GH) Barone's Building - far left storefront - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, 558 McKean Avenue was a candy store (Sanborn - 1921). Prior to 1921, this was Stevenson's Bakery. In 1921 and 1923, this was Kane Brothers Kandy Kitchens confectioners of home-made candies and ice cream. In 1924 and 1925, this was Vincent's Tonsorial Parlors (barber shop). In 1926, 558 McKean Avenue was The Sugar Bowl restaurant and confectioner. In 1929, this was Vincent Cirella Barber. In 1946 and 1951 and 1954, 558 McKean Avenue was Roscoe's Barber Shop. In 1951 and 1958, 558 McKean Avenue was Spragg Construction Company. In 1974, this was Neno's Barber Shop. (GPS: 558 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH)(OB) Blue Building - This building was built between 1901 and 1902 because it was here in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902). Built around 1902, this building is one of the original structures in Donora. In 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921, this was a clothing and boots and shoes store (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921). In 1929, the back alley was a bake shop (Sanborn - 1929). This was a furniture store. In 1996 and 2000, this was Graphic Expressions. The original building facade has been totally covered and is now the home of a silk screen shop - UniTee Productions. (GPS: 549 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GS) Blue Building - Pillsbury and Pearlman ghost signs - After a building at 543 McKean Avenue was razed around 2019 that is to the left of 549 McKean Avenue, a series of ghost signs were exposed from the Blue Building that is believed to have been built in 1902. The building at 543 McKean Avenue was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). One of the signs shows "Pillsbury's Best" in the upper righthand corner. Another shows "H. Pearlman for Better..." in the lower righthand corner. And a third shows something about a "Store" on the upper lefthand corner. These signs were created prior to when the building at 543 McKean Avenue was built, which makes the ghost signs over 100 years old. (GPS: to the left of 549 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) J.C. Penney / Boston Store - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). Since 1928, 1951, 1958 and 1976, this was the J. C. Penney Company. Later, the storefront became the second location of the Boston Store. In 1994 and 1995 and 2008 and 2010, 551 and 555 McKean Avenue were the Boston Store for ladies fashions and Modern Male Men's Store. Currently, it is still the Boston Store. (GPS: 551 and 555 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Siegel's / Anthony's Italiano - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not here in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1926 and 1951 and 1954, this was Daniel Siegel's Dry Goods. In 1929, 1936, 1951 and 1958, this was Dan's Dollar Store - Infants, Children and Ladies' Wear, and Siegel's Ladies' and Children's Ready To Wear. In 1971, this became Rizzuto's Jewelry and Music founded in Monessen in 1962. In 1977, the storefront became Italiano Take-Out owned by Jim and Andrea Welsh. Currently, it is Anthony's Italiano Restaurant & Catering Service pizza shop - home of the famous Red Top Pizza. (GPS: 557 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) New Testament Building - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909, both 560 and 562 were vacant which may mean that the building was built in 1908 or 1909 (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, 560 was a men's clothing store and 562 was vacant (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, 560 was a men's clothing store and 562 was a sewing machines and phonograph store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1954, this was C&M Market. In 1951, 1974 and 1976, 560 was Reliable Furniture Company. In 1974, 562 McKean Avenue was Health Mart. (GPS: 560 and 562 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) New Testament Building - right side storefront - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1914 and 1921, 560 McKean Avenue was a men's clothing store (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1926, 560 McKean Avenue was Lieber's Men's Store and U.S. Army Store. In 1951 and 1958, 560 McKean Avenue was Reliable Furniture. In the 1985, this was The Shoe Shoppe before it moved across McKean Avenue. In 2000, 560 McKean Avenue was S.K. Computer Services Inc. Currently, 560 McKean Avenue is Vena Technologies, LLC (GPS: 560 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) New Testament Building - left side storefront - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909 and 1914, 562 McKean Avenue was vacant (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1921, 562 McKean Avenue was a sewing machine and phonograph store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1941 and 1951, 562 McKean Avenue was Deaktor's Sanitary Market or Star Super Markets, Inc. or Fink's Fresh Produce. In 1994, 562 McKean Avenue was 7000-1Resource Center. In 1996, 562 McKean Avenue was Washington Greene County Job Training Agency, Inc. In 2000, 562 McKean Avenue was Bigi Duronio & Walsh Attorneys at Law. Currently, 562 McKean Avenue is the New Testament Holiness Church. (GPS: 562 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH)(OB) Campbell's Shoe Store / Isaly's - This building was being built 1902 and is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909 and 1914 and 1921, this was a boots and shoe store (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914 and 1921). E. C. Campbell managed the shoe store, and his family lived on the second floor. The store stocked the finest footwear of every make and variety whose motto was "Fine grade, high quality and the right price." In 1921 and 1929, it was the Claybaugh-Milliken Company that sold Walk-Over Shoes. In 1951 and 1974, this was Isaly's Dairy ice cream shop. (GPS: 563 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Faller Building - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, this was a 5 & 10c store (Sanborn - 1921). Apartments occupied the second, third and fourth floors. In 1921, 565 McKean Avenue was Barents store for boys and girls. In 1926, 565 McKean Avenue was Pearlman's men's furnishings. In 1926, 569 and 571 McKean Avenue was the J. G. McCrory Company 5 & 10c Store. In 1974, 567 McKean Avenue was J. G. McCrory Company 5 & 10c Store. This building was built with a fourth story that was removed due to a fire sometime maybe in the 1980s. This was a a Hidden Treasures thrift store of Washington City Mission, Mon Valley Boxing gym and then another thrift store. (GPS: 565 and 567 and 569 and 571 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) The Stewart Building - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). This building was probably built in 1908 or 1909 since both storefronts were vacant (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, 581 McKean Avenue was a grocery store and 583 McKean Avenue was a clothing store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, 581 and 583 McKean Avenue was a clothing and boots and shoe store (Sanborn - 1921). The Stewart Building was the original location of the Boston Store and was there in 1911 (579 McKean Avenue),1926, 1945, 1951 and 1958 and 1976 serving Donora since around 1911 or 1914. When the Boston Store moved a few storefronts to the left on McKean Avenue, the storefront was divided into two storefronts. In 1995, 581 McKean Avenue was Modern Male Men's Store. Later, 581 McKean Avenue was the "This and That Shop". Â In 1994 and 1996 and 2000 and 2008, 583 McKean Avenue was The Shoe Shoppe. (GPS: 581 and 583 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) The Stewart Building - Shoe Shoppe Display Windows - The Donora Historical Society uses "The Shoe Shoppe" display windows for additional sidewalk displays. The display on the left is a semi-permanent exhibit with artifacts from the Donora-Webster Bridge 1908-2015. The display on the right is an eclectic collection of miscellaneous artifacts from the Zinc Works, Steel Works, etc. The Stewart Building was sold in 2024 and the Donora Historical Society could no longer use the display windows. (GPS: 583 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Strickler / Central Pharmacy Building - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn 1902 and 1909). In 1909, 584 McKean Avenue was a novelty store, 588 McKean Avenue was a dry good store and 592 McKean Avenue was a clothing store. The basement has two storefronts with Sixth Street entrances that were a pool room and insurance office (Sanborn - 1909). In 1911, 584 McKean Avenue was Bigelow & Clark Jewelers and Music Dealers. In 1914, 584 McKean Avenue was a jewelry store, 588 McKean Avenue was a candy store and 592 McKean Avenue was a clothing store, the basement was a pool room and insurance office (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, 584 McKean Avenue was a women's clothing store, 588 McKean Avenue was a grocery store and 592 McKean Avenue was a clothing store, the basement was a pool room and millinery (Sanborn - 1921).Â
This building has three storefronts on McKean Avenue that once housed a pharmacy and a clothing store. Gabriel's Old Stand was located here until 1903. In 1903, H. R. Brown and Sons Jewelry was located here until 1904. The second floor once consisted of professional offices. The third floor or 594 McKean Avenue consisted of two large meeting/ballrooms that were once home to the Elks Lodge 1265. In 1926, the International Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) Castner Lodge No. 11, the Daughters of Scotia, the Knights of Columbus Donora Council No. 1941, Knights of Pythias No. 226, the Masonic Lodge Donora 626, and Order of Eastern Star shared the third-floor meeting/ballrooms. The Catholic War Vets club eventually took over the Elks room when they moved to their new building a block away on Meldon Avenue.Â
In 1951, 594 McKean Avenue or the third floor was Catholic Daughters of America, Clan Grant, Daughters of Scotia, Junior Order of American Mechanics, Knights of Columbus No. 1942, Odd Fellows Lodge, Rebekah Lodge No. 64.
In 1974, 594 McKean Avenue or the third floor was the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).
To take a tour of the building filmed in 2023, click Strickler Building/Central Pharmacy. (GPS: 584 and 588 and 592 and 594 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
This building has three storefronts on McKean Avenue that once housed a pharmacy and a clothing store. Gabriel's Old Stand was located here until 1903. In 1903, H. R. Brown and Sons Jewelry was located here until 1904. The second floor once consisted of professional offices. The third floor or 594 McKean Avenue consisted of two large meeting/ballrooms that were once home to the Elks Lodge 1265. In 1926, the International Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) Castner Lodge No. 11, the Daughters of Scotia, the Knights of Columbus Donora Council No. 1941, Knights of Pythias No. 226, the Masonic Lodge Donora 626, and Order of Eastern Star shared the third-floor meeting/ballrooms. The Catholic War Vets club eventually took over the Elks room when they moved to their new building a block away on Meldon Avenue.Â
In 1951, 594 McKean Avenue or the third floor was Catholic Daughters of America, Clan Grant, Daughters of Scotia, Junior Order of American Mechanics, Knights of Columbus No. 1942, Odd Fellows Lodge, Rebekah Lodge No. 64.
In 1974, 594 McKean Avenue or the third floor was the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).
To take a tour of the building filmed in 2023, click Strickler Building/Central Pharmacy. (GPS: 584 and 588 and 592 and 594 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Strickler / Central Pharmacy Building - right storefront - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn 1902 and 1909). In 1909, 584 McKean Avenue was a novelty store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, 584 McKean Avenue was a jewelry store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, 584 McKean Avenue was a women's clothing store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1924 and 1930, 584-586 McKean Avenue was Irwin's - The Ladies Store for Ladies', Misses' and Children's Wearing Apparel and Millinery. In 1936, 1951, 1958 and 1974, 584 McKean Avenue was the Boston Shoe Store. In 1994 and 1996, 584 McKean Avenue was Dr. David R. McCreary Dentist. Later, 584 McKean Avenue was the site of New Valley Dental owned by Drs. Frantz. Currently, it is vacant. (GPS: 584 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Strickler / Central Pharmacy Building - middle storefront - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn 1902 and 1909). In 1909, 588 McKean Avenue was a dry good store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, 588 McKean Avenue was a candy store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, 588 McKean Avenue was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1929, 590 McKean Avenue was George Vazur Grocery. In 1929 and 1930, 590 McKean Avenue was Vernon & Hornbake Paints & Hardware - Sporting Goods and Electrical Appliances. In 1938, 1951 and 1958 and 1976, 590 (588) McKean Avenue was Miller's for Men Clothing Store. Most recently, it was a beauty salon. Currently, it is vacant. (GPS: 588 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Strickler / Central Pharmacy Building - left storefront - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn 1902 and 1909). In 1909 and 1914 and 1921, 592 McKean Avenue was a clothing store (Sanborn - 1909). (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914 and 1921). In 1921 and 1926, 594 (592) McKean Avenue (may have been in the basement) was Wachtel Brothers men's clothing. In 1936, 1941 and 1951 and 1977 and 1996, 592 McKean Avenue was Central Pharmacy and Gift Shop. Currently, it is vacant. (GPS: 592 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Strickler / Central Pharmacy Building - basement storefronts - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn 1902 and 1909). The basement on the Sixth Street side had two storefronts. In 1909 and 1914, the basement storefront on the left was an insurance office and the storefront on the right was a pool room (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1921, the basement storefront on the left was a millinery and the storefront on the right was a pool room (Sanborn - 1921). In 1921 and 1926, 594 (592) McKean Avenue (may have been in the basement) was Wachtel Brothers men's clothing. In 1923, 113 Sixth Street was The Lorraine Shoppe for women's wear. In 1938, 113 Sixth Street was Taylor Circle Barber Shop. Later, it was part of the Central Pharmacy Gift Shop (GPS: Sixth Street - to the RIGHT)Â
(GS) Strickler / Central Pharmacy Building ghost sign - The sign "Where People Come First" once hung on the Sixth Street side entrance of the Central Pharmacy at 592 McKean Avenue and was turning into a ghost sign due to being made of wood. For preservation purposes, this sign was removed and given to the Donora Historical Society and is now on display at the Smog Museum just across McKean Avenue from its original location. (GPS: now at 595 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(48)(OB)(GH) First National Bank of Donora - Donora Historical Society and Smog Museum - This building was designed by architect Robert Barnhart of Charleroi and built in 1901 or 1902 and was here in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921, 587 McKean Avenue was a clothing store, 595 McKean Avenue was a drug store on the left and a bank on the corner (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921). In 1929, 587 McKean Avenue was a drug store, 595 McKean Avenue was a men's clothing store on the left and a bank on the corner (Sanborn - 1929). Originally, this building had three storefronts on McKean Avenue. Later, there were just two storefronts when two of the original three were combined. On the Sixth Street side of the building, there was an additional storefront at 207 Sixth Street.
First National Bank was established in 1901. Originally, this building was built as the First National Bank in 1902 and is one of Donora's original structures. The bank vault still exists in the basement. In 1925, Paul's Barber Shop was located in the basement. In 1930 during the Great Depression, the other two banks closed merging into the Union National Bank of Donora, leaving this bank as the only surviving bank until 1948. The second floor once housed the Bell telephone switchboard office that fielded distress calls during the 1948 Smog. It also contained a doctor's office with a few patient rooms. In 1951, John S. McCans Real Estate and Insurance had an office on the second floor. A ballroom on the third floor once hosted a Civil War veteran’s reunion in 1910 for the Ringgold Cavalry and honored original member Adam "Daddy" Wickerham.Â
On the bank side, a storefront in the middle, housed Donora's first clothing store - The Famous in 1901. In 1926, Dr. Minor Day had his medical practice on the second floor along with a few patient rooms. In 1946 and 1951 and 1974, 591 McKean Avenue was William's Dress Shop. In the 1954 and 1958 the bank and middle storefront were combined and became Williams Ladies & Children Apparel clothing store. Later, it was a Health Mart, then a Chinese restaurant, and then finally the Smog Museum in 2008. (GPS: 595 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
First National Bank was established in 1901. Originally, this building was built as the First National Bank in 1902 and is one of Donora's original structures. The bank vault still exists in the basement. In 1925, Paul's Barber Shop was located in the basement. In 1930 during the Great Depression, the other two banks closed merging into the Union National Bank of Donora, leaving this bank as the only surviving bank until 1948. The second floor once housed the Bell telephone switchboard office that fielded distress calls during the 1948 Smog. It also contained a doctor's office with a few patient rooms. In 1951, John S. McCans Real Estate and Insurance had an office on the second floor. A ballroom on the third floor once hosted a Civil War veteran’s reunion in 1910 for the Ringgold Cavalry and honored original member Adam "Daddy" Wickerham.Â
On the bank side, a storefront in the middle, housed Donora's first clothing store - The Famous in 1901. In 1926, Dr. Minor Day had his medical practice on the second floor along with a few patient rooms. In 1946 and 1951 and 1974, 591 McKean Avenue was William's Dress Shop. In the 1954 and 1958 the bank and middle storefront were combined and became Williams Ladies & Children Apparel clothing store. Later, it was a Health Mart, then a Chinese restaurant, and then finally the Smog Museum in 2008. (GPS: 595 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(48)(OB)(GH) Union Pharmacy - Originally, this building was built as the First National Bank in 1902 and is one of Donora's original structures. This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and was here in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921, 587 McKean Avenue was a clothing store (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921). In 1929, 587 McKean Avenue was a drug store (Sanborn - 1929). The storefront to the left was originally the Union Pharmacy that served people during the 1948 Smog. It also sold Eastman Kodak cameras and had a Bell Telephone pay station. In 1911, 1921 and 1942 and 1944, this was the Union Pharmacy. In 1921 and 1938 and 1941, Lou Tomer ran the pharmacy for drugs, candies and sodas. In 1951 and 1954, this was George's Union Pharmacy (George Prince). In 1959 and 1974, this was Zubrick’s Union Pharmacy. In 1951, this was also the meeting place of Masonic Lodge No.626. In 1974, upstairs was Dr. Kimel, dental office and Dr. Levin medical offices. (GPS: 587 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH)(OB) Union Pharmacy Display Windows - The storefront to the left of the Smog Museum is part of the same building that was built in 1902 as the First National Bank of Donora by the Union Improvement Company. This storefront was originally a clothing store and then the Union Pharmacy. The Donora Historical Society uses the pharmacy display windows for additional sidewalk displays. The window exhibits change periodically with the one on the right often displaying a Christmas display from November to February. The overhead glass transom that stretches the length of the storefront is made up of mauve glass squares that are backlit during Light Up Night festivities at Thanksgiving time. (GPS: 587 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(SM)(48)(KG)(OB)(GH) Donora Historical Society and Smog Museum - The museum is on the left with a sign labeled as you would expect. This is the home of the Donora Historical Society. The Smog Museum is our museum. Among the many things are displays dedicated to the 1948 Smog, Stan Musial, the Steel Mill, Cement City and everything related to our town of Donora. Originally, this building was built as the First National Bank of Donora in 1902. (GPS: 595 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH)(OB) First National Bank of Donora Building side store - Around the corner on Sixth Street from the First National Bank building is a separate side storefront entrance. In 1902, this was vacant (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909 and 1914 and 1921 and 1929, 207 Sixth Street was an office (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914 and 1921 and 1929). In 1926, this was West Penn Power Company office. (GPS: 207 Sixth Street - to the LEFT)
(GH)(OB) First National Bank of Donora Building Annex - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). Around the corner on Sixth Street from the First National Bank building is a separate standalone building that has an enclosed walkway on the second floor that joins the two buildings. It is believed that this building was built when the First National Bank building was built in 1902 and is one of Donora's original structures. This had a storefront at 209 Sixth Street. In 1935, this was Donora Thrift Corporation that loaned money. In 1946 and 1974, this was (John Sutyak) Sutyak's or Swiatek's Tailor and Furrier Shop. Later, it was a doctor's office. The second and third floors were used as apartments. (GPS: 209 Sixth Street - to the LEFT)
NOTE: McKean Avenue and Sixth Street to Seventh Street
(GH) Irondale Hotel site - The Irondale Hotel was one of Donora's original hotels and was located here with multiple storefronts. Architect Robert Barnhart of Charleroi designed the Irondale. The Irondale Hotel was razed in 1966 to make way for a PNC Bank building. Prior to that it was called Pittsburgh National Bank or PNB. The triangle logo is still visible on the Sixth Street side of the building in pre-cast concrete. After the bank closed, the Donora Union Pharmacy took it over and moved here from across the street. Union Pharmacy is Donora's oldest business and is as old as Donora. (GPS: 601 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(SM) Stan Musial Military Banner - Stan "The Man" Musial played professional baseball from 1941 to 1963 but missed the 1945 season due to his enlistment in the U.S. Navy during WWII. Seaman 1st Class Musial served in Pearl Harbor during the war. The Donora military banner program includes a banner of Stan Musial that is usually mounted at the intersection of McKean Avenue and Sixth Street in front of the Donora Union Pharmacy. This banner is only displayed for six months of the year from May until October. (GPS: 601 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Donora Clock Tower – Across McKean Avenue and catty-corner to the Smog Museum is a parking garage. The "turn of the century" 20-foot clock tower is located at the intersection of Sixth Street and McKean Avenue at the Donora Parking Plaza parking garage and designed in 1983 to give the business district a unique identity with a special feature halfway up the four columns of signs that accentuates the town's name DONORA in bold brass letters. Prior to being a parking garage, Harry Balis started a gas station here and built a Gulf station in 1941. The Gulf station closed in 1957. This intersection is considered the center of town in Donora. (GPS: across the street from 601 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Town Center Gazebo – As you continue on McKean Avenue, to the left of the Donora Clock Tower is the Town Center Gazebo built in 1986 in the middle of the Donora Parking Plaza parking garage. As of 1920, the Donora High School mascot was the Dragon. Note the Donora Dragon weathervane on the roof of the gazebo. Prior to being a parking garage, Harry Balis started a gas station here and built a Gulf station in 1941. The Gulf station closed in 1957. GPS: across the street from 601 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(KG) Ken Griffey Sr. Military Banner - Shortly after Ken Griffey Sr. graduated from high school, he was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds professional baseball team, became the father of Ken Griffey Jr., and enlisted in the United States Army Reserves from 1970 to 1976 during the later years of the Vietnam War. The Donora military banner program includes a banner of Ken Griffey Sr. that is usually mounted at the intersection of McKean Avenue and Sixth Street across the street from the Stan Musial military banner that is in front of the Donora Union Pharmacy. This banner is only displayed for six months of the year from May until October. (GPS: across the street from 601 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Kanes Brothers Building - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1927 and 1943 and 1951 and 1954, this was Kanes' Restaurant and Bar (founded in 1904 but not here). In 1974, this was Olivieri Restaurant. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, this was Wildlife Unlimited taxidermist and then Fine Design Taxidermy. (GPS: 621 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) CACIA Building - This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1914 and 1921, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1920 and 1926, this was the Joe Cacia Grocery - Tobacco, Fruit, Candies & Soft Drinks. We believe the building was built by Giuseppe (Joe) and Concetta Cacia. The metal sign at the roofline spells "CACIA". Giuseppe (Joe) and Concetta would pass in 1919 and 1924 respectively. In 1946, this was Sill's Sporting Good and Auto Supply. In the 1946, 1951, 1954 and 1974, this was Henry's Auto Supply and Sporting Goods Store. Henry was Henry Balas whose brother Harry a Gulf gas station next door to the right in what is now a parking garage. This was Dr. Cherkin and Dr. Voigt eye doctors. In 1994, this was Drs. Clayton Anderson and Thomas Sobot. In 1996, 620 McKean Avenue was Glaucoma-Cataract Consultants, Inc. This building was razed in 2025 and no longer exists. The Donora Historical Society has the CACIA metal sign on display. (GPS: 620 and 622 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GS) CACIA Building ghost sign - The metal "CACIA" sign once rested at the very top of the roof line of the CACIA Building at 622 McKean Avenue. After the building was razed in 2025, for preservation purposes, this metal sign was removed and given to the Donora Historical Society and is now on display at the Smog Museum just a short distance from its original location. (GPS: now at 595 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GS) Donora Dragon ghost sign - Donora was founded in 1901. Around 1920, Donora High School adopted the dragon as its mascot. For Donora's Centennial celebration in 2001, professional commercial sign painter Pierre Luti of Monessen painted the Donora Centennial logo on the side of the CACIA Building on the right of the building at 622 McKean Avenue. While it isn't very old, it's fading and turning into a ghost sign, nonetheless. This building was razed in 2025 and no longer exists. (GPS: 622 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GS) Kaufmann & Baer Co. ghost sign - A Kaufmann & Baer Co. ghost sign appears on the right side of the CACIA Building at 622 McKean Avenue. It was there as early as 1920 and was promoting the Kaufmann & Baer Co. department store. (Edgar) Kaufmann Department Store relatives Isaac, Ludwig and Nathan Kaufmann partnered with Morris and Julius Baer to start a new department store, Kaufmann & Baer Co. They built their store in 1914 at the corner of Sixth and Smithfield in downtown Pittsburgh. In 1925, Gimbel Brothers purchased Kaufmann & Baer Co., with the store name updated to Gimbels in 1928. The building is still there in Pittsburgh. This building was razed in 2025 and no longer exists. (GPS: 622 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GS) Montgomery Ward / Murphy's ghost sign - The Montgomery Ward department store once occupied the building at 624 and 634 McKean Avenue. Sometime after, in the 1960s, the G. C. Murphy Co. took over the building, but the Montgomery Ward / Murphy's ghost sign still remains. (GPS: to the right of 624 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GS) Pittsburgh National Bank (PNB) ghost sign - Directly across McKean Avenue from the parking garage is the building that is now the Donora Union Pharmacy but used to be a PNC Bank. Prior to that it was called Pittsburgh National Bank or PNB. A sign was painted with the PNB logo on the side of the building at 624 and 634 McKean Avenue. (GPS: to the right of 624 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Montgomery Ward Co. - G. C. Murphy Co. - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). This building was built in 1927 as a Montgomery Ward department store that occupied the whole building at 624 and 634 McKean Avenue. It has one of the few, if not only, freight elevators in Donora. In 1929, Dr. Myford had an office here. In 1938, 630 McKean Avenue was Nick's Hat Cleaning and Shoe Shine. In 1951, 632 McKean Avenue was Seigel's Credit Jewelry Store. In 1954 and 1974, 630 McKean Avenue was G. C. Murphy's 5 & 10. Since 1979, it was the home of Formality - a complete Wedding and Prom service. Muia Studios moved to 634 McKean Avenue in 1981 from 649 McKean Avenue, directly across the street. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, 624 McKean Avenue was FORMALITY Formal Attire for Men & Women. Currently, it is the home of Galiffa Productions. (GPS: 624 and 634 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) white brick building - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, this was a boots and shoe store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1929, this was a bakery (Sanborn - 1929). In 1926 and 1933, this was Prezel's Pastry Shoppe - purest pastries and homemade bread. In 1938 and 1944, this was Sonny's Bakery (John Mantsch) or Mantsch Bakery. In 1946, 627 McKean Avenue was Zotter's Bakery. In 1951, 627 McKean Avenue was Gysegem's Bakery. In 1954, 627 McKean Avenue was Mantsch Bakery. In 1946, 629 McKean Avenue was Cy's Men's Store - Men's Wear for Men Who Care. In 1951 and 1954, 629 McKean Avenue was Howard's Gift Shop. In 1958, 629 McKean Avenue was Altman's Children's Shoppe. In 1951 and 1957, Harry Balis opened Balis Auto Supply - Sporting Goods and Toys here. A fire destroyed Balis Auto supply in 1965, so it was located to 510 McKean Avenue. In 1974, this was Cherkin & Voigt Optometrists. In 1994 and 2000, this was Dr. Cordero's medical office. (GPS: 627 and 629 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Greco's Fruit Market building- This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1935, 631 McKean Avenue was American Shoe Shine Parlor. In 1936 and 1937, 631 McKean was Hat Cleaning & Shoe Shine Parlor. In 1942, 629 McKean was Cy's Men's Store. In 1941 and 1951, this was Nick's Hat Shop. In 1946, this was Perry's Hat Shop - Better Hats for Better Heads (formerly Nick's Hat Shop). In 1951, this was Altman's Children's Shoppe. In 1955, 1974 and 1996 and 2003, 629 McKean Avenue was Greco's Fruit Market and Dino's Deli. In 1974, 631 McKean Avenue was Armand's Pizza Shop. (GPS: 629 and 631 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) William Donner building - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909, this was a women's furnishings store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was millinery (hat) store (Sanborn 1914). In 1921, this was some office (Sanborn - 1921). In 1923 and 1925, this was S.A. Long's Jewelers. In 1930, this was People's Store clothing store. In 1936, 636 McKean Avenue was Lois Ann Shop. In the 1936 and 1951, 636 McKean Avenue was The Fashion Store - Where Price Meets Quality, children's clothing store. In 1951 and 1958, 638 McKean Avenue was City Finance Corporation. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, 638 McKean Avenue was the William Donner Building - Donora Chamber of Commerce. Currently, this is the Rostraver - West Newton Ambulance substation. (GPS: 636 and 638 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Dino's Deli building - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1929 and 1930, 635 McKean Avenue was Marie Rose Boot Shoppe. In 1930, 635 McKean Avenue was Jones' Dry Goods. In 1930, 637 McKean Avenue was Henry Pearlman Ladies Store. In 1938 and 1943, 637 McKean Avenue was Cy's Men's Shop. In 1941, 635 McKean Avenue was Joy Beauty Salon. In 1944 and 1946, 635 McKean Avenue was Siegel's Credit Jewelers. In 1951, this was the Henry Badzik Printing Service. In 1954, 637 McKean was Anthony Lapes Decorating Shop. In 1974, 637 McKean Avenue was Roscoe Bros. Barber Shop. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, this was Dr. Caffari Chiropractor. Later, the storefront became Dino's Deli. (GPS: 633 and 635 and 637 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Erdely Building - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909, this was a bank (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was a candy store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a tailor shop (Sanborn - 1921). In 1924 and 1938, this was Foreman The Tailor for cleaning, pressing and repairing (may have been located on the second floor). In 1951 and 1974, this was S. Zuccarini Meat Market and Grocery. In 1978, 1994, 1996, 2000, 2008 and 2009, this was the Donora Union Pharmacy. (GPS: 642 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) John's Flower Shoppe building - This building was being built in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914 and 1921, this was a candy store (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, this was Stewart's Sweet Shop for ice cream, sundaes, sodas, drinks, home-made candies and salted nuts. In 1926, this was The Famous men's furnishings. In 1930, this was Henry Pearlman Men's Store. In 1951, this was a West Penn Power Company office. John and Sophie Choratch started John's Flower Shoppe in 1963. In 1970, after John's passing, Sophie moved John's Flower Shoppe here. In 1974 and 1996 and 2000, this was John's Flower Shoppe. (GPS: 643 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Roberts Building - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, this was a boot and shoe store (Sanborn - 1921). This building was built by John Oliver Roberts for his Common Sense Shoe Store. Notice the ROBERTS stone sign near the roof. In 1926, Roberts' shoe store was here. Due to the Great Depression, Roberts had to close his business. In 1926, Albert Roberts had an express and drayage business - transporting shipping containers by horse drawn wagon or truck to its final destination. In 1937 and 1944, this was Artuso's Shoe Store. In 1951, 649 McKean Avenue was Globe Men's and Boy's Wear. Started in 1964, Chuck Muia moved his Muia Studio to 649 McKean Avenue. In 1974 and 1976, this was Chuck Muia Studio. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, this was Ultimate Hair Works. This building was razed in 2024 and no longer exists. The Donora Historical Society has the ROBERTS stone sign on display. There are actually two stones. (GPS: 647 and 649 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GS) Roberts Building ghost sign - This isn't a true ghost sign. The stone "ROBERTS" sign once rested just below the roof line of the Roberts Building at 649 McKean Avenue. After the building was razed in 2024, for preservation purposes, this stone sign (two heavy pieces) was removed and given to the Donora Historical Society and is now on display at the Smog Museum just a short distance from its original location. (GPS: now at 595 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Grand Opera House - Harris Theatre Building - This building was being built in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909). In 1909, this was an opera house (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was called the Grand Theatre (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was called the Grand Theatre for Moving Pictures (Sanborn - 1921). In 1924, this was the Grand Theatre. In 1927 and 1929, this was the Harris Theatre for Movies (Sanborn - 1929).
Designed by architect Victor A. Rigaumont, this four-story building with 550 seats was being built in 1909 by Hopton and Evans, so dates to 1909 to 1910 and was called the Grand Opera House. At the street level, the building is mostly glass now but is totally different from its original stone arched entrance. The upper three floors are white brick with two large arched windows. This was once one of Donora’s original theater buildings and is one of two that still exists. Vaudeville, silent movies (starting in 1911) and then talkies were all shown here along with events like boxing matches and a Civil War veteran’s reunion in 1910. Early on, it was renamed to the Grand Theatre.
In 1923 and 1926, the Donora Evening Herald newspaper editors, publishers and job printers worked here, perhaps in the basement. Around 1927, it was renamed to the Harris Theatre - Presenting The Best in Talking Pictures. In 1930, it was renamed Warner Brothers Harris Theatre and was operated by Warner Bros.
Dick Powell, an American actor, singer, musician, producer, director, and studio head performed here probably between 1928 and 1932 when he lived in Pittsburgh and was a singer with the Charles Davis Orchestra before he got into acting. Though he came to stardom as a musical comedy performer, he showed versatility and successfully transformed into a leading man, starring in projects of a more dramatic nature. His most famous movie was "42nd Street" in 1933. Powell has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The Harris Theatre closed in 1958.Â
In 1994 and 2000, 650 McKean Avenue was J.C. Video. (GPS: 648 and 652 or 644 and 646 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
Designed by architect Victor A. Rigaumont, this four-story building with 550 seats was being built in 1909 by Hopton and Evans, so dates to 1909 to 1910 and was called the Grand Opera House. At the street level, the building is mostly glass now but is totally different from its original stone arched entrance. The upper three floors are white brick with two large arched windows. This was once one of Donora’s original theater buildings and is one of two that still exists. Vaudeville, silent movies (starting in 1911) and then talkies were all shown here along with events like boxing matches and a Civil War veteran’s reunion in 1910. Early on, it was renamed to the Grand Theatre.
In 1923 and 1926, the Donora Evening Herald newspaper editors, publishers and job printers worked here, perhaps in the basement. Around 1927, it was renamed to the Harris Theatre - Presenting The Best in Talking Pictures. In 1930, it was renamed Warner Brothers Harris Theatre and was operated by Warner Bros.
Dick Powell, an American actor, singer, musician, producer, director, and studio head performed here probably between 1928 and 1932 when he lived in Pittsburgh and was a singer with the Charles Davis Orchestra before he got into acting. Though he came to stardom as a musical comedy performer, he showed versatility and successfully transformed into a leading man, starring in projects of a more dramatic nature. His most famous movie was "42nd Street" in 1933. Powell has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The Harris Theatre closed in 1958.Â
In 1994 and 2000, 650 McKean Avenue was J.C. Video. (GPS: 648 and 652 or 644 and 646 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GS) Grand Opera House building ghost sign - This four-story building was being built in 1909 by Hopton and Evans, so dates to 1909 to 1910 and was called the Grand Opera House and then was renamed to the Grand Theatre. Between the third and fourth floors, and below the dentil molding, is a stone inscribed with “GRAND” that is original to the building from 1909. (GPS: 648 and 650 and 652 or 644 and 646 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Claybaugh's Wallpaper & Paints building - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909, this was a paints and oil store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was a wallpaper and paints store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a grocery and meat market store (Sanborn - 1921). An old photo shows a date near the roof line that says the building was built in 1908. Prior to 1921, this was Claybaugh's Wallpaper & Paints store. Prior to 1921, Foreman The Tailor for cleaning, pressing and repairing was located on the second floor. In 1926 and 1951, this was the Donora Meat Market for quality groceries and meats. In 1928 and 1930, this was the Grand Billiard and Pool Room, as well as Jones Dry Goods that sold hosiery, lingerie and millinery. In 1974, this was Mantsch's Bakery run by Blanche Mantsch. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000 and 2008, this was the Donora Dressmaker owned by tailor Roxana Smith. (GPS: 651 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
GS) Claybaugh's Wallpaper & Paints ghost sign - On the left side of the building that was Claybaugh's Wallpaper & Paints is painted a billboard size sign stating the name of the store and some of the items that were for sale. This sign was uncovered after the Roberts building to the left was razed in 2024. Since this building was built in 1903, this sign was probably painted between 1903 and 1921. Since by 1921 the Claybaugh building was already the Donora Meat Market, more than likely this sign was painted prior to 1910 and is over 115 years old. Historic photos show that the same sign also exists on the right side of the building as well. The signs were painted by Claybaugh per the signature in the lower righthand corner in the green border. They sold paint and they obviously used it. (GPS: to the left of 651 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Woodward Building - This building was built in 1916 per the stone marker at the top of the building facade near the roof. In 1921, this was a men's clothing store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1921, 653 McKean Avenue was The New York Store for shoes and gent's furnishings. In 1926, 653 McKean Avenue was Stewart's Sweet Shop confectioner for lunches, refreshments and even dancing until 11:00 p.m. In 1924, this was Whitney's confections, party supplies, music and dancing. In 1925 and 1926, this was Whitney's - The Pleasure Parlor for entertainment. In 1928 and 1929, this was Jones Dry Goods that sold hosiery, lingerie and millinery. In 1941 and 1974, this was the Artuso's Shoe Store. At some point, this building may have been Danny's Market and George Sipes market. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000 and 2008, the storefront at 653 McKean Avenue became Max Chywski State Farm Insurance office. Currently, it is Alchemy Arts tattoo shop. (GPS: 653 and 655 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Donora Furniture Company / Club Billiards - This building was built in 1909 per the stone marker at the top of the building facade near the roof. In 1914, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was furniture store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1910 and 1915, this was Oxle & Jones which we assume was a grocery store. In 1926 and 1929, this was the Donora Furniture Company or the Myerson & Hirsch Furniture. In 1938, 1954 and 1958, this was Club Billiards pool hall. In 1974 and 1996, this was a Pennsylvania State Store that sold wine and liquor - Wine & Spirit Shoppe. (GPS: 654 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) New Spragg Building - This building was built in 1912 per the stone marker at the top of the building facade near the roof. In 1914, this was a restaurant (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a jewelry store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1918, 1921 and 1930 and 1951, this was C. B. Charles - Your Jeweler for diamonds, watches, clocks and silverware since 1911. In 1951, 656 McKean Avenue was Mary Ann's Beauty Shoppe and Pangborn Chiropractor. In 1974, 658 McKean Avenue was Michael Joseph's Beauty Salon. (GPS: 656 and 658 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) B. Altman Building - This building was built in 1925 per the stone marker at the top of the building facade near the roof. In 1926 and 1951 and 1958 and 1974, this was The Famous - Donora's Best Men's and Boy's Shop. In 1937, this was Club Billiards - Football & Baseball Scores Daily, it may have been located in the basement. In 1951 and 1958, this was The Famous mens' and boys' store. In 1974, 657 McKean Avenue was One Hour Martinizing dry cleaners. In 1996 and 2000 and 2010, this was the office of State Representative Peter Daley. (GPS: 657 and 659 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Andy's TV Repair / Perri Shoe Store building - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909 and 1914 and 1921, this was a boots and shoe store (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914 and 1921). In 1926, 1928, 1942, 1951 and 1958 and 1974, this was the M. A. Perri & Son Shoe Store that started in Donora in 1901. In 1974 and 1997, the storefront became Andy's Radio and TV Repair owned by Andy Soltes. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, this was also Mrlack Plumbing & Heating. (GPS: 660 and 662 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Ferrier Building #2 - This building was owned by A. Ferrier and was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1914 and 1921, 665 and 667 McKean Avenue were a dry goods and clothing stores (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). Prior to 1926 (in 1918 and 1923), 665 and 667 McKean Avenue was D. S. Bayne & Company - The Store Reliable department store. In 1921, 667 McKean Avenue was The Donora Studio for photography by A.E. Feld. In 1926, 665 and 667 McKean Avenue was Caldwell - Hastings Ladies Ready to Wear and Dry Goods. In 1929, 665 McKean Avenue was the J.C. Penney Company. In 1951 and 1952, 663 and 665 McKean Avenue was Grazzini Glassware or Grazzini Chinaware. In 1929 and 1930, 667 McKean Avenue was Datz - The Valley's leading photographer. In 1937 and 1938, 667 McKean was Chester E. Glinka - Portrait and Commercial Photographer. In 1938, 1945 and 1951, 665 and 667 McKean Avenue was Chester Studio for Portrait and Commercial Photography - Chester E. Glinka. At some point, Artuso's Shoe Store was at 661 McKean Avenue. In 1974, 661 McKean Avenue was Western Union Telegraph Company. In 1974 and 1976, 661 McKean Avenue was Pinky's Donora Pharmacy. In 1974, 667 McKean Avenue was Mon Valley Pepsi Cola Company. In 1994, 667 McKean Avenue was McCue Agency Insurance & Real Estate. In 1996 and 2000, 665 McKean Avenue was Katsur Dental and Orthodontics but closed in 2022. (GPS: 661 and 663 and 665 and 667 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Campa's building - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909, this was a novelty store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914 and 1921, this was a grocery store - Kroger's Grocery Store (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1926, this was Fred Schmidt Chiropractor. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000 and 2008, this was Campa's Restaurant and Full Service Catering specializing in Homemade Italian food. (GPS: 664 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH)(48)(OB) Hotel Donora – The Hotel Donora was designed by architect Robert Barnhart of Charleroi and built in 1901 and is one of Donora's original structures. It was not only a hotel (44 rooms) but had a restaurant and was a boarding house as well. Originally, this building had three storefronts on McKean Avenue. WIlliam Donner bought the Donora Hotel in 1945 to locate the Community Center and Donora Public Library here after the library was located at the Tri-Plant Club at the corner of Sixth Street and Meldon Avenue since its founding in 1930. In 1948, the basement was used as a temporary morgue during the 1948 Smog to handle the overflow from the local funeral homes. The Donora Historical Society was chartered here in 1946, and this was their original home. In 1951, this was the meeting place for the Business and Professional Women's Club, Chamber of Commerce, Daughters of St. George, Donora Community Club, Donora Women's Club, Girl Scouts, Junior Women's Club, Red Cross and Welfare, Unidon Club, Unity Club, Women's Republican Club, and the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. (GPS: 670 and 672 and 674 and 676 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH)(OB) Hotel Donora - Donora Furniture - Originally, the storefront on the far right was two distinct storefronts. In 1902, this was a clothing store on the right and a millinery on the left (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909 and 1914, this was a men's clothing store on the right and a pool room on the left (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1921, both storefronts were combined into one and was a haberdashery or hat store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1902, this was the Miller Clothing Company on the right that sold upscale men's suits and clothing. In 1951 and 1958 and since 1918, 670 and 672 McKean Avenue was the Donora Furniture Company. In 1974 and 1976, 670 McKean Avenue was C.L.'s Donora Furniture. (GPS: 670 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH)(OB) Hotel Donora Barber Shop - In 1902, this was a bank, the Union Trust Company of Donora, before it moved across the street in 1909 (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909 and 1914 and 1921, this was a barber shop (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914 and 1921). In 1926, 672 McKean Avenue was Taylor Circle Barber. In 1951 and as early as 1928, 672 McKean Avenue was Villella Brother's Barber Shop and a pool room. In 1928, Villella's cut hair for both ladies and gentlemen. In 1974, this was Vilella Barber Shop. Later, this was storage for the Donora Historical Society. (GPS: 672 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GS) Donora Hotel ghost sign - This is the original sign painted on the front of the Donora Hotel between the second and third floors. Painted in white, DONORA HOTEL is still slightly visible. It's assumed that the sign is original to the building so is over 120 years old. (GPS: 674 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GS) Donora Hotel ghost sign - This isn't a true ghost sign but a very old bronze plaque that identifies this building as the original Donora Community and Library Center. We assume this plaque dates to 1945 or 1946 when the Hotel Donora was purchased to be used as the community and library center. The library would last here until 1996. (GPS: 674 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GS) Donora Hotel ghost sign - This isn't a true ghost sign but a very old white and blue ceramic mosaic that identifies the origin of our town of DONORA. This is located just inside the front double doors to the lobby. Think of the people that may have crossed this threshold like WIlliam Donner, Henry Clay Frick, Andrew and Richard Mellon - our town's founders. (GPS: 674 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(OB)(GH) Ferrier Building - Mullin's Drug Store / Donora Pharmacy - Built in 1902, the Ferrier building is one of the original structures in Donora. The Ferrier building may also have been known as the O'Donnell building. In 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921 and 1929, 669 McKean Avenue on the left was a jewelry store and 675 McKean Avenue on the right was a drug store (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921 and 1929). Prior to 1904, 669 McKean Avenue on the left was Segner Jewelry Store that sold diamonds, watches, clocks, rings, silver plate, table cutlery, musical instruments and Eastman Kodak cameras. E. F. Segner was also an optician who sold glasses. In 1904, H. R. Brown & Sons Jewelers bought out E. F. Segner and took over the storefront at 669 McKean Avenue. In 1911, 1924, 1942, 1951 and 1954, this was H. R. Brown & Sons Jewelers. In 1921 and 1926, 669 McKean Avenue was also Datz Photography that took Oradon yearbook photos. In 1921 and 1930, 675 McKean Avenue was Hirsch's Pharmacy - The Rexall Store. In 1935, this was the Donora Pharmacy. In 1938, Donora Pharmacy was run by Pinky Pulasky. In 1946, it was called Pinky's Donora Pharmacy. In 1944, 1951, 675 McKean Avenue on the right was Mullin's Drug Store also known as the Donora Pharmacy. In 1954, 675 McKean Avenue was Donora Pharmacy. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000 and 2009, 675 McKean Avenue was Kay's Cleaners. In 1994, 673 McKean Avenue was La Vonne's Beauty Salon. Most recently, 673 McKean Avenue was The Backos Fishery. (GPS: 669 and 673 and 675 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GS) Donora Pharmacy ghost sign - On the right side of the building that was the Donora Pharmacy is painted a billboard size sign stating the name of the store and some of the items that were for sale. This sign was uncovered after the original Union Trust Company of Donora bank building was razed in 2022. The bank building was built in 1909, so this sign was probably painted between 1902 and 1908 so is well over 110 years old. (GPS: to the right of 675 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
C(GH) Castner-Binns Building - Union Trust Company of Donora – Directly across the street from the Hotel Donora was the third original bank in Donora built in 1909 - the Union Trust Company of Donora. In 1909, 681 McKean Avenue was a bank (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, 679 McKean Avenue was a news store and 681 McKean Avenue was a bank with a pool room in the basement (Sanborn - 1914). In 1911, 679 McKean Avenue was Coatsworth's News Depot for fresh candies, books, stationery, pipes, cigars and tobacco. In 1921, 679 McKean Avenue was a news and tobacco store, and 681 McKean Avenue was a bank with a bowling alley in the basement (Sanborn - 1921). In 1911, the Owl Pool & Bowling Alleys may have been in the basement. In 1921 and 1926, Roman Koehler had a real estate and insurance office here. In 1929, John Whitefield had a real estate and insurance office here. In 1926 and 1928 and 1929, Schempp's Book Store and United Cigar Store were located in this building. In 1921 and 1929, The Rex Billiards and Bowling was located in the basement. In 1936 and 1938, 677 McKean Avenue was Grand Billiards. In 1951, 677 or 669 McKean Avenue was the Grand Pool Room whose basement had a couple of duck pin bowling lanes and pool tables. Legendary Donora High School football coach Jimmy Russell once lived in an apartment in this building with his family. In 1996 and 2000, 679 McKean Avenue was Ed Short Sporting Goods. This building originally had three stories, but the third story was removed after a fire in the 1980s. This building was razed in 2022 after another fire and no longer exists. (GPS: 679 and 681 McKean Avenue or corner of McKean Avenue and Seventh Street - to the LEFT)
NOTE: McKean Avenue and Seventh Street to Eighth Street
(GH) Hotel - Donora Webster Bridge HQ in 1907 - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909, 700 McKean Avenue was The Peoples Bank of Donora and 702 McKean Avenue was vacant (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, 700 McKean Avenue was a bank and 702 McKean Avenue was a plumbing store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, 700 McKean Avenue was a furniture store and 702 McKean Avenue was a household goods store (Sanborn - 1921). Originally, this building had two storefronts on McKean Avenue. This building was built before 1908 since it was the headquarters of the Donora-Webster Bridge built in 1908. In 1909, 706 McKean Avenue was Donora Steam Dyeing and Cleaning Works. In 1926, 702 McKean Avenue was the First Pilgrim Church after its founding. In 1926, 702 and 706 McKean Avenues was Silverstein and Kalovsky Furniture and Stoves. In 1929, 704 McKean Avenue was J. K. Scott Grocery. In 1936, 702 McKean Avenue was Garcia's Beauty Shop. In 1936, 706 McKean Avenue was C.P. Groceries. In 1951 and 1954, 702 McKean Avenue was the Keystone Restaurant and Garcia's Beauty Shop. The Keystone Restaurant featured Spanish cuisine. In 1942 and 1951, 706 McKean Avenue was Foreman's Tailor and Cleaning. (GPS: 700, 702, 704 and 706 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) McKean Avenue and Seventh Street Park - This site once had multiple buildings.Â
The right most part of the park (735 McKean Avenue) was the original site of the Lyric Theater that became the Warner Brothers Liberty Theater in 1935. The Lyric Theatre was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921 and 1929, this was the Lyric Theater for moving pictures. Primarily wooden construction, including the floor, it had 300 seats with no balcony. Backstage was big enough for stage shows. It had a flat marquee with no room for letters that ran the length of the front of the building. In 1938, this was the Warner Brothers Liberty Theatre. "Liberty" was in green neon top to bottom, two stories high on the left of the marquee. In 1946 and 1976, this was the Liberty Theatre at 733 McKean Avenue. The apartment in the back was probably the former dressing area. Sometime in the early 1970s, it became the local adult house which lasted until maybe 1976 or so. Around 1978, the theater converted back to family type movies. The building was sold in the 1980’s to a church group and was torn down in the 1990’s.
Today, it's a small park with a pavilion that was built around 2020. (GPS: 701 to 735 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
The right most part of the park (735 McKean Avenue) was the original site of the Lyric Theater that became the Warner Brothers Liberty Theater in 1935. The Lyric Theatre was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921 and 1929, this was the Lyric Theater for moving pictures. Primarily wooden construction, including the floor, it had 300 seats with no balcony. Backstage was big enough for stage shows. It had a flat marquee with no room for letters that ran the length of the front of the building. In 1938, this was the Warner Brothers Liberty Theatre. "Liberty" was in green neon top to bottom, two stories high on the left of the marquee. In 1946 and 1976, this was the Liberty Theatre at 733 McKean Avenue. The apartment in the back was probably the former dressing area. Sometime in the early 1970s, it became the local adult house which lasted until maybe 1976 or so. Around 1978, the theater converted back to family type movies. The building was sold in the 1980’s to a church group and was torn down in the 1990’s.
Today, it's a small park with a pavilion that was built around 2020. (GPS: 701 to 735 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(OB)(GH) Dr. Petro's Doctor's Office - This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of Donora's oldest buildings (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this building was vacant probably because it was just built (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was a dry goods and millinery store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914 and 1921, this was a meat market (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). This was Schwartz's Meat Market. In 1923, this was The White Front Market that sold meat. In 1946, this was Jeloszewski Whiskey Beer and Sanwiches. In 1951, this was Jeloszewski Lunch. In 1974, this was Dr. Dimitri Petro's doctor's office. Up until 2025, this was the Centreville Clinic of Donora. (GPS: 716 and 718 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(OB)(GH) Petro Bakery - This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of Donora's oldest buildings (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was a restaurant (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909 and 1914, this was a bakery (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1921, this was a bakery and grocery store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1921 and 1927, this was The Goody Shop confectionary and bakery for ice cream, candies, bread, fancy cakes and pastry. Petro Bakery was the first bakery in Donora started in 1916 by Mary Petro and was the home of fine baked goods. In 1937 and 1938, this was Petro Lunch - cold beer, wines and liquor - dine & dance. In 1946, 1951, 1974 and 1976, this was still open as the Petro Bakery. (GPS: 722 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
In 1937, 720 McKean Avenue was Garcia's Beauty Shop.
In 1937, 720 McKean Avenue was Garcia's Beauty Shop.
(GH) Lenhart's Beer Garden - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909 and 1914 and 1921, this was a Paints and Oils and hardware store (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914 and 1921). In 1921, this was E.D. Morse hardware and paints. This building was Lenhart's Beer Garden. In 2008 and 2010, this was Cindy's Catering and Deli. Currently, it is a secondhand appliance store. (GPS: 740 and 742 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) 744 McKean Avenue building - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909 and 1914, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1921, this was a boots and shoe store (Sanborn - 1921). Prior to 1921, this was George Elias dry goods and Ladies' and Gent's furnishings. In 1926 and 1928, this was E. A. Nasim Shoe Store. In 1929, this was Samuel C. Moskal Shoes and Hosiery. In 1975, this was the Cyprus Lunch founded by Gus Costas who immigrated from the Island of Cyprus in 1920. In 1951 and 1954, this was John's Place. In 1974, this was Gerald Amatangelo Insurance and Real Estate. In 1994 and 1996, this was the Lunch Counter. (GPS: 744 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(OB)(GH) 749 McKean Avenue building - This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of Donora's oldest buildings. In 1902, this was a hardware and hand printing store (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this building was vacant (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a pool room (Sanborn - 1921). In 1911, this was Unatin Furniture Company.This was Rabikow Meat Market. In 1942, this was Diamond Cleaners and Dyers. In 1929 and 1940 and 1943, this was Altenhof's Flower Shop. In 1946 and 1951 and 1954, this was the John Hornbake Tax Collector's office. In 1954 and 1963, this was Harry Ruey Agency for insurance. In 1974, this was Mon Valley Carpet & Furniture Company. In 1976, this was Obley Upholstery. This building burned and was razed in 2023 and no longer exists. (GPS: 749 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) 758 McKean Avenue building - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1921, 758 McKean Avenue actually had another building that contained a restaurant that must have been razed to make room for the current building (Sanborn - 1921). In 1929, this was Applebaum's Department Store. From 1937 to 1962, this was the Giant Eagle Market. In 1962, it was Vayansky's Market and owned by Don (Sonny) and Paul Vayansky. In 1974, this was Vayansky Super V grocery store. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, this was Dando Printing Company. (GPS: 754 and 756 and 758 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Nasim Building - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1923 and 1926, this was Barone's Fruit Market. In 1928 and 1930, 759 McKean Avenue was Joseph Vadala Tailor Shop - Maker of Men's Suits (suits for $22.90). From 1930 to 1937, 761 McKean Avenue was Costas's Restaurant started by Cleon Costas. In 1936 and 1938, 763 McKean Avenue was Buck's Norge Products - Ranges, Refrigerators, Ironers and Washers. Later, 763 McKean Avenue was Apollo Quick Lunch. In 1951, 763 McKean Avenue was Kee Auto Parts. In 1974, 759 McKean Avenue was Nasim's Shoe Store. In 1974, 763 McKean Avenue was Joseph J. Bogdan Appliances. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, 759 McKean Avenue was B.T. Custom Machines (motorcycles). (GPS: 759 and 761 and 763 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) 762 McKean Avenue building - This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1914, this was a boots and shoe store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a dry goods store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1926, this was Samuel Applebaum Dry Goods. In 1946, this was E.C. Schumacher Appliances Sales and Service. In 1946, this was M. Essey Hanna's Maytag Appliance - Sales and Service. In 1951 and 1954, this was Fisfis Wholesale Tobacco Candy and Cigarettes. (GPS: 762 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(OB)(GH) 766 McKean Avenue building - This building was being built in 1902 and is one of Donora's oldest buildings (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was grocery store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914 and 1921, this was a confectionary or candy store (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1926, this was Joseph Radon Confectioners. In 1929, this was Swiatek's Jeweler. In 1938 and 1946, this was Swiatek's Jewelry & Music Store. In 1951 and 1958, this was Swiatek Jewelry Store. (GPS: 766 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(OB)(GH) Friedlander Building - This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of Donora's original buildings (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was an undertaker and furniture store (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was a millinery (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this building was vacant (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a pool room (Sanborn - 1921). In 1926, this was Nick Hagejohn Barber. In 1929 and 1939, this was Ben Friedlander Quality Meat Market. In 1951, this was Victory Billiards. (GPS: 767 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) 770 McKean Avenue building - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909, this was a barber shop on the right and fruit store on the left (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914 and 1921, this was a barber shop on the right and a jewelry store on the left (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921 and 1923, 770 McKean Avenue was P. Swiatek for fine jewelry and watch repairing. In 1926, this was Alphonso Saunders Barber. In 1951 and 1954, this was M. Essey Hanna's Maytag Appliance - Sales and Service. (GPS: 768 and 770 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Louis Wolkovitz Clothing - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909, this was a printing office (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was a tailor. On the second floor was a L.O.O.M. - Loyal Order of Moose Lodge (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a clothing store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1926, this was Louis Wolkovitz Clothing. In 1946, 1951 and 1954, this was Motor Supply Company. In 1974, this was Bulko's TV Service. (GPS: 769 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) J. Balas Building - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1942, this was Lorenzo's Barber Shop. In 1946, this was Moss Radio Service. In 1951, this was Bedogne and Vincent Radio and Television. NOTE: The addresses at 785 McKean Avenue and 783 McKean Avenue are out of numerical order and trace that misnumbering to the early 1900s. (GPS: 785 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) 783 McKean Avenue building - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, this was a clothing and boots and shoe store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1923 and 1926, this was the Star Restaurant & Confectionary. In 1923 and 1924, Sam Blucher had a barber shop in the basement. In 1946, 1951 and 1974, this was Lorenzo's Barber Shop. In 1996 and 2000, this was Ernie's Barber Shop. NOTE: The addresses at 785 McKean Avenue and 783 McKean Avenue are out of numerical order and trace that misnumbering to the early 1900s. (GPS: 783 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Hotel Lawrence - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). This building was once the Hotel Lawrence in 1909 and 1914 and 1921 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914 and 1921). In 1938, 789 McKean Avenue had a bar/restaurant on the first floor called Capone's Tavern and Restaurant and was owned by Sam and Joe Capone. Capones was the first licensed tavern after prohibition and the first to have air-conditioning and a television. In 1954, this was Capone's Star Bar or A. Capone & Son's Restaurant and Tap Room. In 1958, this was Capone's Restaurant. In 1996 and 2000 and 2001, this was McKean Manor, an assisted living facility. (GPS: 787 and 789 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
NOTE: McKean Avenue and Eighth Street to Ninth Street
(GH) Garde's Grocery Store / Takach Locksmith - There was a structure here in 1909 that may have been this building. If so, then this building was built between 1902 and 1909 since it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909, this was a fruit stand (Sanborn - 1909). IN 1911, this was Charles Gatti Groceries, Fruit Confections and Tobacco. In 1914 and 1921, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). The foundation appears to be old but the building itself is wood construction. In 1930 and 1936, this was Modern Shoe Rebuilding shoe repair. In 1938, this was Massari's Shoe Repair Service. This was Garde's Grocery Store. In 1951, this was June's Lunch Box. It then may have been Alice's Luncheonette owned by Alice Jericho. In 1994 and 2000, this was Takach Locksmith. Currently, it still is Takach Locksmith. (GPS:800 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Schwerha's Dairy / Takach Locksmith - This is the lefthand side of the Garde Grocery Store / Takach Locksmith building. This addition was put on after 1929 since it was not here in 1929 (Sanborn - 1929). In 1942 and 1951, this was Schwerha's Dairy. (GPS: 802 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)Â
(GH) 823 McKean Avenue building - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909, this building was vacant (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was boots and shoe store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was an auto supply store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1923 and 1926, this was R.E. Hagerson - automobile supplies. In 1946, this was Rainbow Lunch. In 1951, this was Connie's Lunch Room. In 1954, this was the Spanish Grille. In 1974, 823 McKean Avenue was the Ring Side Bar. (GPS: 821 and 823 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) 825 McKean Avenue building - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909 and 1914, 825 McKean Avenue was a cobbler's shoe repair store (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1921, this was a tailor store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1921 and 1926, Joseph Vadala Tailor was here. In 1942, this was Joe Emler Paint Products. In 1946, this was Alvarez & Menendez Meats and Groceries. The Ringside Bar may have been here. (GPS: 825 and 827 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) 829 McKean Avenue building - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, this was a shoe shop (Sanborn - 1921). In 1929, this was a tailor and cleaning shop. (Sanborn - 1929). (GPS: 829 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Hanna's Plumbing and Hardware - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, this was a dry goods store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1926, this was S. Hanna's. In 1926, this was Abraham Hanna's Dry Goods. In 1946 and 1951 and 1974, this was the Spanish Grill. In 1974, this was S. Hanna Plumbing and Electric. (GPS: 833 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Ridgely Garage - This building was built in 1921 per the stone marker at the top of the building facade near the roof (Sanborn - 1921). "Ross" R. M. Ridgely came to Donora in 1901, started to sell cars in 1911 and became the first Dodge dealership in Pennsylvania in 1914. He built this garage in 1921 and sold as many as 635 new Dodge cars in 1933. In 1926, they sold Dodge, Jewett and Paige cars. In 1926, they sold Dodge and Nash cars. In 1935, they sold Dodge, Plymouth and Packard cars. In 1938, they sold Dodge, Plymouth and Dodge Trucks. In 1944, 1951, 1954 and 1958, this was R.M. Ridgely garage. In 1973 and 1976, this was Lieber's Furniture. In 1994, this was Service Rent-All. Since 1999, this is currently JED Heating & Cooling. (GPS: 840 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) 859 McKean Avenue building - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1933, this was Robinson's Groceries. In 1946, this was Arnold Studio for photography. In 1946, 1951 and 1954, this was Grant's Flower Shop. (GPS: 859 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Spanish Grill / Radic & Carbone - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, this was a confectionery and candy factory (Sanborn - 1921). This building started as the Spanish Grill and later became Radic & Carbone's Bar. In 1921 and 1923, this was Kanes Brothers & Company Kandy Kitchens for home-made confections and salted nuts, ice-cold drinks and fancy sundaes. In 1926, this was Kane Candy Kitchen "The Home of Sweets" or Kanes Brothers Confectioners. In 1941, this was Bea's confectioners. In 1951, this was Stacey's Shoe Shop. (GPS: 871 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
NOTE: McKean Avenue and Ninth Street to Tenth Street
(GH) First United Presbyterian Church - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909. It's unsure if the building was here in 1902 because Sanborn didn't go this far north on McKean Avenue (Sanborn - 1909). The First United Presbyterian was organized in 1902, and their church building was erected at Ninth Street and McKean Avenue. This building served their congregation until 1960 when they merged with the Calvary United Presbyterian Church at Eighth Street and Thompson Avenue. Since 1982, this building has been owned by JED Heating and Cooling and is used as a warehouse. (GPS: 900 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Svercek Barber Shop - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909. It's unsure if the building was here in 1902 because Sanborn didn't go this far north on McKean Avenue (Sanborn - 1909). In 1946, this was the Svercek Barber Shop. (GPS: 915 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GS) Castner School Date Stone ghost sign - This isn't a true ghost sign but the date stone of the Castner School that was built in 1902 or 1903. In 1926, the school expanded with a new addition on the McKean Avenue side of the building. This stone reflects the date of the original building (1902 or 1903) and the date of the new addition (1926) so is from 1926. After the school was razed, this stone ended up in the backyard of the house to the left of the original Castner School site (see below). The date stone was built into a wall of yellow bricks that we assume came from the same building. We assume the wall was built after 1974 when the school was razed. The address of the house is at 915 McKean Avenue but the addresses on this side of the street are slightly out of order as the house to the left has the address of 927 McKean Avenue. (GPS: 915 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) 930 McKean Avenue building - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1937 and 1946, this was Louise's Beauty Shop. (GPS: 928 and 930 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(OB)(GH) Castner School Site - This building was built in 1902 or 1903 as Donora's first High School. It became an elementary school when Donora built the First Street School as a larger high school in 1913. In 1926, this building was expanded with a large addition on the McKean side of the building (see the stone ghost sign above). Castner School closed in 1974. After the school was razed, these townhomes were built in its place. (GPS: 931 to 941 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) A&P Grocery Store - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921 and 1926, this was a Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company or A&P (Sanborn - 1921). In 1951 and 1974, this was Vogini's Market. (GPS: 936 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) 938 McKean Avenue building - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). (GPS: 938 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Johnnie's Auto Service - This building was built after 1929 because it was not here in 1929 (Sanborn - 1929). In 1951 and 1954 and 1963, this was Johnnie's Auto Service - Amoco Gas and Oils. In 1954 and 1974 and 1996 and 2000, this was Rich's Service Stations - Amoco. Currently, this is B & B Auto Service (GPS: 948 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Novotney Grocery Store - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909. It's unsure if the building was here in 1902 because Sanborn didn't go this far north on McKean Avenue (Sanborn - 1909). In 1909 and 1914 and 1921, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914 and 1921). In 1926 and 1951, this was Novotney Grocery Store. (GPS: 968 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GS) Novotney Grocery Store ghost sign - This very faded ghost side appears on the lefthand side of the building, on the right side of the wall. It appears to be very tall. We assume, because of its condition, it was here when this was the Novotney Grocery Store or even earlier. Portions of two words are visible and are probably over 80 years old. The second word looks like it may say "Bo" or "Be" something. (GPS: 968 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church - This building was built in 1913 per the building's cornerstone. The congregation of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church organized Aug. 11, 1903, with the first services held in the First National Bank building at Sixth Street and McKean Avenue (Smog Museum). The formal dedication of their own building at Tenth Street and McKean Avenue was held Nov. 30, 1913. The congregation also shared the church building with St. John’s Episcopal Church and Slovak Lutherans in Donora and Webster. The Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church closed in 2005 and is now a private residence. (GPS: 991 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(GH) Sinclair Gas Station - This building was built after 1929 because it was not here in 1929 (Sanborn - 1929). In 1938, this was Donora Super Service Station - a Sinclair Gas Station. Most recently, this was Tom's Tire Service - Firestone. (GPS: Tenth Street and McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
NOTE: McKean Avenue and Tenth Street to Eleventh Street and beyond
(GH) First Pilgrim Holiness Church - This building was built in 1941 as the First Pilgrim Holiness Church per the building's cornerstone. Founded in 1926, in 1941 and 1951, this was First Pilgrim Holiness Church. In 2001, this was the Whole Truth Church of God in Christ. (GPS: 1004 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Naugle's Dairy - This building was built after 1929 because it was not here in 1929 (Sanborn - 1929). In 1951, this was Naugle's Dairy. In 1958, this was Evans Ambulance Service. In 1974, this was Cekus' Body Shop. (GPS: 1056 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Milk Store - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1929, this had a milk station in the basement (Sanborn - 1929). In 1935, this was Thomas Svrcek's Sanitary Milk Depot - Pasteurized and Tubercular Tested mile and cream. (GPS: 1078 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) El Chico Beer Garden - This building was built between 1902 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). It's unsure if the building was here in 1902, 1909 or 1914 because Sanborn didn't go this far north on McKean Avenue (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). In 1921, this was a meat market (Sanborn - 1921). In 1939, this was El Chico Lunch. In 1951, this was El Chico's Beer Garden. (GPS: 1096 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(KG) Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. home #2 - Beyond 12th Street and up the hill, at the corner on the left you will see the house that Ken Griffey Sr. rented for his family when Ken Jr. was born in 1969 and during his first year with the Cincinnati Reds or until 1970. They would move from Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. home #1 on Thompson Avenue. This little neighborhood also was home to one of the very first Honor Guards of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National in 1938 - Michael Beresh, and Donora’s first Vietnam War casualty – US Army Special Forces Green Beret Paul Perdok. (GPS: 1161 McKean Avenue - to the LEFT)
(48)(GH) Spanish Club – Continue on McKean Avenue to Thirteenth Street. On the hill to the right lies what was once the Spanish Club. Originally built as the home for the Superintendent of American Steel and Wire, it was eventually sold to the Spanish community of Donora as their club house after it was found that living across the street from the Zinc Works wasn’t the most desirable location. Spaniards immigrated to Donora because of their expertise in the Zincing process and lived close to where they worked. Similar to all other ethnic groups in Donora, they formed their own social club in 1924 due to the success of money raised by their Spanish Maroons soccer team. They started the Spanish Benefit Society in 1927. A swimming pool was added for club members in 1964 and still exists but is not operational. This building is no longer the Spanish Club and is not being used. (GPS: 1312 Overlook Drive - to the RIGHT)
(OB)(48)(GH) Gilmore Cemetery – Continue on McKean Avenue until it dead ends to the Gilmore Cemetery. This cemetery predates Donora’s founding in 1901. The first burial took place around 1804 and also includes some of the original settlers in the area from both sides of the Monongahela River, including one of our area’s first settlers - Peter Castner who was a Revolutionary War veteran. There is also a War of 1812 veteran (a Castner) and over 40 Civil War veterans buried here as well. The cemetery was taken over by the Gilmore family around 1876 and was named after steamboat Captain John Gilmore. During the time that the Zinc Works was operating, no vegetation grew in the cemetery, as well as the whole Donora hillside, causing severe erosion. By the 1930s, the Gilmores ceased any additional burials due to the erosion and loss of vegetation. (GPS: end of McKean Avenue)
McKEAN AVENUE - Finish
MELDON AVENUE - If you make a right on Eleventh Street, you can go one block to Meldon Avenue. Meldon Avenue that starts at First Street and goes north all the way through Donora for fifteen blocks. We start the driving tour at First Street.
THOMPSON AVENUE - If you make a left on Tenth Street, you can go up one block to Thompson Avenue. You will then be heading south. We go in this direction because Thompson Avenue is mostly a one-way street that goes south.
MELDON AVENUE - Start
At First Street, you'll be heading north on Route 837 on Meldon Avenue. Meldon is the other main street through Donora.Â
At First Street, you'll be heading north on Route 837 on Meldon Avenue. Meldon is the other main street through Donora.Â
NOTE: Meldon Avenue and First Street to Third Street (two blocks)
(GH) Donora Brewery/Stetz Bottling/Donora Beverage - This building was built in 1904 or 1905. In 1909 and 1914, this was the Donora Brewing Company (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1921, this was the Monessen Pure Ice Company (Sanborn - 1921). In 1929, this was the Commonwealth Ice & Cold Storage Company (Sanborn - 1929). The Donora Brewery existed between from 1905 to 1920 but went out of business when Prohibition stated in 1920. In 1921, this building was the Monessen Pure Ice Company. In 1926, this was Sanitary Beverage Company - Soft Drink Manufacturers. In 1926, this was also the Commonwealth ice & Cold Storage Company. It then became Stetz Bottling that became the Donora Beverage Company. In 1940, 1951 and 1958, this was the Donora Beverage Company and Mission Orange Bottling Company, a local bottler of Mission Beverages, the best orange pop in the Valley. In 1951, 1954 and 1974, this was Donora Motor Company that sold Fords. In 1974, this was Donora Beverage. Later became a Ford Dealership - Mori Ford Agency. The building is painted as Gelsey Dressmaker’s, a fictitious factory used in the filming of TV series American Rust in 2021. (GPS: First Street and Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GS) Donora Brewery/Mission Bottling ghost sign - On the left side of the Donora Brewery building is a ghost sign that faces the railroad tracks. It was painted when the building was Stetz Bottling. It appears that is says, "STETZ - HOME OF MISSION BEVERAGES." We assume the sign dates to the 1950s. (GPS: First and Meldon Avenue)
(GH) car dealership /grocery store building - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1929, this was contractor's storage (Sanborn - 1929). This may have been Patterson Construction Company. In 1951, 1954 and 1958, this was Bindi Brothers Pontiac and Cadillac. The Bindi Brothers came to Donora in 1936 and purchased this building in 1951. In 1974, this was an A&P Grocery Store. Then it was an IGA market, then the Donora Food Market. In 1996, this was Donora Food Valu. In 2000, this was the Dollar General and currently still is. (GPS: 271 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
NOTE: Meldon Avenue and Fourth Street to Fifth Street
(GH) Select Cleaners - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, this was Modern Baking Company (Sanborn - 1921). In 1929, this building was vacant (Sanborn - 1929). It's our understanding that the very top part of the building had a grain contraption that we assume was used during the time it was the Modern Baking Company, perhaps to make its own flour and cornmeal. In 1941, this was the Modern Baking Company. In 1943, 1951 and 1974, this was Diamond Cleaners - Cleaners - Dyers - Hatters - Furriers. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, this was Select Cleaners. Currently, it is Upgrade Demolition and Recycling. To take an aerial tour of the building filmed in 2020, click 400 Meldon Avenue. (GPS: 400 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Elks Lodge 1265 - This building was built in 1956. This was at least the second home of the Donora Elks Lodge 1265 when this building was constructed in 1956. The first location was on the second floor of the Stickel Building at Sixth Street and McKean Avenue. Lodge 1265 was chartered in 1912. Since around 2020, this is no longer the Elks Lodge. (GPS: 429-435 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
NOTE: Meldon Avenue and Fifth Street to Sixth Street
(GS) Balis Auto Supply - Champion ghost sign - Since 1957, this building at 510 McKean Avenue was Balis Auto Supply - Sporting Goods and Toys. A ghost sign was painted for Balis Auto Supply and CHAMPION (spark plugs). We assume the sign dates to the 1960s. (GPS: to the left of 513 and 515 Meldon Avenue in the Cypress Way Alley - on the LEFT)
(SM)(GH) American Legion - Ernest E. Jobes Post 212 – This building was built in 1917 as the original Anita Garibaldi Italian Club. In 1921 and 1929, this was the Italian Club (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1951 and 1974, this was Victor Emanuel Society. Currently, this building is at least the second home of the Donora’s American Legion Post 212 named after Donora’s first WWI casualty Ernest E. Jobes. As a WWII Navy Veteran, Stan Musial was a longtime member of Post 212, and even though he lived in St. Louis, Musial continued to be a generous member until his passing. Post 212 is still active and in its bar-area sits a fully restored pre-WWII art deco pool table from the old Slovak Home that still features burned cigarette stripes on its mahogany rails. (GPS: 513 and 515 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GS) Liebers Wall Paper and Paints or Liebers Fine Furniture ghost sign - The wooden "LIEBERS" sign once existed on a door to the basement of the Barone's Building at 544-558 McKean Avenue. In 1929, 546 McKean Avenue was I. (Isadore) Lieber Wall Paper and Paints. In 1941, Lieber's Wallpaper & Paint Store occupied the storefront at 546-548 McKean Avenue. In 1946, 546 and 548 McKean Avenue was Lieber's Store - Electrical Appliances Furniture, Wall Paper and Paints. In the 1950s, Liebers Furniture Store occupied the storefront at 546-548 McKean Avenue. This building's basement was used for Liebers storage or a showroom and the Liebers door was added for entrance to the building's basement from Cypress Way Alley between McKean and Meldon Avenues. This building doorway opening appears to have been widened to the left since it extends beyond the left of the brick arch. It appears behind the American Legion - Ernest E. Jobes Post 212 building and to the right of the Balis Auto Supply CHAMPION ghost sign. As of 2024, this door is no longer here. After it was kicked in, the door was moved to the Donora Historical Society. It is believed that this door is 80-100 years old based on the lockset. (GPS: Cypress Alley between Fifth and Sixth Streets - on the LEFT)
(GS) Liebers Wall Paper and Paints or Liebers Fine Furniture ghost sign - The wooden "LIEBERS" sign once existed on a door to the basement of the Barone's Building at 544-558 McKean Avenue. After the door was kicked in in 2024, for preservation purposes, this wooden door was removed by the Donora Historical Society in 2025. Due to its size and some rot, the door was cut down preserving the "LIEBERS" sign and is now on display at the Smog Museum just a short distance from its original location. It is believed that this door is 80-100 years old based on the lockset. (GPS: now at 595 McKean Avenue - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Donora Public Library – This building was built in 1996 and is the third home of the Donora Public Library. The original home existed at the Tri-Plant Club / Indiana Hotel when the Donora Public Library was formed in 1930. The Library then moved to the Donora Hotel’s Community Center in 1945. This building holds Donora related research material like newspaper microfilm. Prior to the building of the Donora Public Library in this location, this was the site of boyhood home of Senior United States District Judge Reggie Walton who we feature on our website. (GPS: 510 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Pennsylvania Railroad Train Station Sign - DONORA stop – In the Donora Public Library’s front porch garden sits the DONORA sign, painted black with orange letters that was hung on the original Pennsylvania Railroad Train Station that once existed on Eighth Street between Meldon Avenue and the railroad tracks. All immigrants arriving in Donora or all servicemen coming back home from WWI and WWII would have been welcomed by this sign. The train station no longer exits. The original sign would have been painted red with white lettering. This sign is over 100 years old. (GPS: 510 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) 1948 Donora Smog Pennsylvania Historic marker – This Pennsylvania Historic and Museum Commission marker stands in front and to the right of the Donora Public Library building and was erected on October 20, 1995, to recognize the Donora's 1948 Smog event. (GPS: 510 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) First Methodist Episcopel Church Cornerstone - The First United Methodist Church was once located at Fifth Street and Thompson Avenue, was constructed in January 1903 and dedicated in 1904. The church was razed in 2025 and no longer exists. The cornerstone was relocated to the front lawn of the Donora Public Library on August 20, 2025. The cornerstone contained a time capsule that was located on the underside of the stone in a carved-out cavity. (GPS: 510 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
NOTE 7: Looking beyond the library on the right and across the railroad tracks into the industrial park and beyond Galiffa Drive, you’ll see some light gray warehouse buildings that were once original steel mill buildings repurposed for another use, in this case Bergen Piping.
(GH) J. A. Scott Garage – This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921 and 1929, this was Campbell's Garage (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1923 and 1929, this was Martin-Shumaker Motor Company that sold Lincoln and Ford Motor Cars, Ford Trucks and Fordson Tractors. In 1937, this was Bindi Brothers - Pontiac Sales & Service. In 1940 and 1946, this was Scott's Garage. Since 1945, this was the J. A. Scott Garage - Nash Sales and Service. IN 1951, they sold Ramblers. Jim Scott started in business in 1932, took on the Nash franchise in 1939 that landed here in 1945. In 1951, this was Scott Auto and Home Supply. In 1951 and 1958 this was J.A. Scott Garage. In 1974, this was Ken Dolan Tire & Auto. In 1976 and 1996 and 2000 and 2009, this was Naylor's Body Shop and Donora Discount Tire Company. (GPS: 533 and 539 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH)) St. Mary's Club – This building was built in 1938 as the Holy Name of Mary Polish Brotherly Aid Society - Holy Name of Mary Group No. 322 - 1903 - 1938. It was called St. Mary's Hall. In 1921 and 1929, the Polish Hall was located here but in another building on the second floor with the first floor occupying an auto repair business. In 1937 or 1938, that building was razed, and this building took its place. In 1973 and 1974, this was the Polish Aid Society. Currently, the hall is no longer open except for private meetings. (GPS: 555 and 557 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GS) Campbell's Garage ghost sign – On the right-hand side of St. Mary's Hall is a ghost sign that references "CAMPBELL'S GARAGE" at 533 Meldon Avenue. The building was built in 1938, so it is assumed that the sign dates back to around 1938. Below this sign, there appears to be another ghost sign that is no longer readable. (GPS: 555 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Gilmore Electric – This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, this was the Faller Brothers Auto Bus Line. The Faller Brothers also stored their furniture inventory on the second floor (Sanborn - 1921). In 1929, this was a printing office (Sanborn - 1929). In 1928 and 1951, The Herald-American moved here to print newspapers. In 1974, this was Stahls' Farm & Garden Center. In 1974 and 1996 and 2000, this was Ackerman's New & Used Furniture Store. Currently, this is Gilmore Electric. (GPS: 565-573 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Furniture Warehouse - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1929, this was a furniture warehouse (Sanborn - 1929). This building is behind a brown wooden fence in back of the AP Delsandro Veterans Memorial. This may have been built by the Faller Brothers who owned a furniture store across Cypress Alley on McKean Avenue. (GPS: to the right of 565-573 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) AP Delsandro Veterans Memorial Park – To the left of the Donora Post Office sits the AP Delsandro Veterans Memorial Park, erected in 1983 and dedicated to the 86 Donora residents who gave the ultimate sacrifice in WWI, WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. After environmental damage, the original memorial was removed; thanks to a decade of community support, and the site has been completely rebuilt. This memorial park was updated and rededicated in 2025. Albert P. Delsandro was born in Donora in 1917, graduated from Donora High School in 1935 and worked for US Steel in Donora. During WWII, Delsandro was the first from Donora to enlist. After the war, Delsandro returned to his job at US Steel and also served as Police Commissioner, Councilman, Burgess and finally, as Mayor of Donora for 22 years until 1977. (GPS: to the right of 565-573 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) AP Delsandro Veterans Memorial Park – To the left of the Donora Post Office sits the AP Delsandro Veterans Memorial Park dedicated to all those from Donora who gave the ultimate sacrifice during WWI, WWII, Korea and Vietnam Wars. This plaque greets visitors to the park for a moment of reflection. (GPS: to the right of 565-573 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GS) AP Delsandro Veterans Memorial Park - WWI Plaque - This is not really a ghost sign. As part of the AP Delsandro Veterans Memorial is this plaque dedicated to those from Donora who gave the ultimate sacrifice during WWI. This plaque is probably around 100 years old and has been displayed at various veterans' memorials around Donora over that time. One place was as part of a large stone memorial that once stood at Donner Park and the other place was on the Sixth Street side of the Smog Museum building inside the stone arches. (GPS: to the right of 565-573 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GS) AP Delsandro Veterans Memorial Park - WWII Plaque - This is not really a ghost sign. As part of the AP Delsandro Veterans Memorial is this plaque dedicated to those from Donora who gave the ultimate sacrifice during WWII. This plaque is probably around 70 years old and has been displayed at various veterans' memorials around Donora. One place was as part of a large stone memorial that once stood at Donner Park and the other place was on the Sixth Street side of the Smog Museum building inside the stone arches. (GPS: to the right of 565-573 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GS) AP Delsandro Veterans Memorial Park - Korean War and Vietnam War Plaque - This is not really a ghost sign. As part of the AP Delsandro Veterans Memorial is this plaque dedicated to those from Donora who gave the ultimate sacrifice during the Korean War and Vietnam War. This plaque is probably around 40 years old and as far as we know, this is the only place that it was on display. If it was displayed elsewhere, the other place was on the Sixth Street side of the Smog Museum building inside the stone arches. (GPS: to the right of 565-573 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GS) D. S. BAYNE & CO. ghost sign - D. S. BAYNE & CO. Dry Goods & Carpets was located in Donora in the building that was actually at 665 and 667 McKean Avenue but also may have been located in the rear or basement of the Strickler building in the Cypress Way alley between McKean and Meldon Avenues directly behind the Donora Post Office. The "D.S. Bayne & Co." portion ghost sign is visible horizontally. The "& CARPETS" portion is visible vertically above the "e" of Bayne. The "Dry Goods" portion is not visible. Perhaps there was an alley entrance to the store. We have D.S. Bayne & Co. artifacts that date to the early 1900s, so we suspect the sign is that old. (GPS: behind 592 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Donora Post Office – The Donora Post Office building was built in 1926, and the cornerstone recognizes one of Donora’s founding fathers – A. W. Mellon when he was the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury. This building is believed to be the second or third location for the Donora Post Office after it moved from the Thomas-Frazier Building on McKean Avenue and Fifth Street. (GPS: 599 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
NOTE: Meldon Avenue and Sixth Street to Seventh Street
(SM) Stan “The Man” Musial Pennsylvania Historic marker – This Pennsylvania Historic and Museum Commission marker stands at the intersection of Sixth Street and Meldon Avenue across the street from the Donora Fire and Police Station. The Stan “The Man” Musial Pennsylvania Historic marker was erected on July 30, 2022. (GPS: 600 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(48)(GH) Donora Fire and Police Departments, and Borough Hall – This building is not necessarily historic but is the second home of the Donora Fire Department with the original being on Thompson Avenue between Sixth and Fifth Streets. The Donora Fire Department is considered to be among the first responders during the 1948 Smog. Their oxygen tank that was carried door-to-door by firemen to assist people with breathing can be seen at the Smog Museum and was featured on the Travel Channel’s Mysteries at the Museum. Built in 1976, this building also contains the Polic Department, Borough Hall and offices. (GPS: 605 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Diamond Jubilee Time Capsule stone - This stone represents the location of a Time Capsule buried in 1976 during the 75th Anniversary or Diamond Jubilee of Donora. The intent is to retrieve the Time Capsule in 2051 or after 75 years since it was buried. The stone sits in the middle of a rock garden directly across the street from the Donora Highrise apartment building. (GPS: across the street from 685 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) 727 Meldon Avenue building - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1929, this was an auto repair garage (Sanborn - 1929). In 1951, this was the site of Keystone Beverage that was established in 1934 and was a wholesale distributor of popular brand beers. In 1951, this was Bindi Brothers Garage. In 1973 and 1974, this was Keystone Beverage. In 1996 and 2000, this was Cooper Electric and currently still is. (GPS: 727 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Automobile Garage and Elks building - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921 and 1929, this was an auto repair garage (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1921, 759-769 Meldon Avenue was Kelly's Garage. In 1927 and 1930, this was William. B. Risbeck that sold Nash and Packard cars. In 1933, this was J.A. Scott's Garage. In 1935, this was Friendship Motor Company that sold Chevrolet cars. In 1951 and 1954 and 1976 this was Matway Chevrolet, Inc. In 1974, 761 McKean Avenue was Town & Country Kitchens, Inc. Later, this building was the Monongahela Valley Lodge No. 208 IBPOE of W. When the Donora Elks Lodge 1265 was segregated, this Lodge served the Black community. In 1996 and 2000, this was Elks Lodge #1265. (GPS: 761 and 765 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Al Zeffiro Transfer & Storage building - This building was built after 1929 because it was not here in 1929 (Sanborn - 1929). Al Zeffiro Transfer & Storage, Inc. was established in 1919 and was located here in 1929, 1941, 1951, 1954 and 1963. This was also a Pontiac Garage. This is the current site of Badzik Printing Service, Inc. that was once located at 637 McKean Avenue and then around Fourth Street and Thompson Avenue. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, this was Badzik Printing Service, Inc. and currently still is. (GPS: 799 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Pennsylvania Railroad Company Freight Depot - The Pennsylvania Railroad Company (PRR) Freight Depot was located on Eighth Street between Meldon Avenue and the railroad tracks. The Pennsylvania Railroad came through our area in 1874. (GPS: 780 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
NOTE: Meldon Avenue and Eighth Street to Ninth Street
(GH) Pennsylvania Railroad Company Passenger Station -The Pennsylvania Railroad Company (PRR) Passenger Station was located on Eighth Street between Meldon Avenue and the railroad tracks. The Pennsylvania Railroad came through our area in 1874. In 1945, the bus station was also located here until the train station was razed. (GPS: 802 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Pennsylvania Hotel / Ray's Hotel Bar - This building was built between 1902 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). It's unsure if the building was here in 1902, 1909 or 1914 because Sanborn didn't go this far north on Meldon Avenue (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). In 1921 and 1929, this was the Pennsylvania Hotel (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). This may have been associated with the Pennsylvania Railroad Company whose station was close by. This building was Paulick's Hotel. In 1951, this was M & J Hotel. In 1954, this was Havanet's Hotel. In 1974, this was Paulick's Hotel. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, this was Ray's Place - Hotel Bar. (GPS: 864 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
NOTE: Meldon Avenue and Ninth Street to Tenth Street
(GH) Donner Park – This park was created between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1914, this was not yet identified as Donner Park but did have a band stand (Sanborn - 1914). In 1914 and 1921, this was the Donner Park Playground (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). Donner Park was named after one of Donora’s founders: William H. Donner in 1913. This was one of Donora’s original parks that held many social events and still exists as a park today with its red roofed gazebo. (GPS: Meldon Avenue and Ninth Street - on the LEFT)
(GH) McWilliams Service Station - This service station was created between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1929, this was a gasoline station (Sanborn - 1929). In 1935 and 1938, this was R.E. Hagerson - Amoco Gas and General Tires. In 1940, this was Atlantic Super Service. In 1941, 1951 and 1958 and 1974, this was C. W. McWilliams Service Station. In 1996 and 2000, this was Tom's Auto Service Center. (GPS: 930 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH)(48) Donora-Webster Bridge Site – Continue to the intersection of Tenth Street and Meldon Avenue. On the left was the site of the Donora-Webster Bridge built in 1908 that connected Donora to Webster, the village across the Monongahela River that was also impacted by the 1948 Smog. The bridge was razed in 2015. A small portion of the bridge and the Donora entrance plaque are on display at the Smog Museum. (GPS: Meldon Avenue and Tenth Street - on the RIGHT)
NOTE: Meldon Avenue and Tenth Street to Eleventh Street
(GH) Donora Flour & Feed Co. building - This building was built between 1902 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). It's unsure if the building was here in 1902, 1909 or 1914 because Sanborn didn't go this far north on Meldon Avenue (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). In 1921, this building was vacant maybe because it was just built (Sanborn - 1921). In 1929, this was a Feed Storage building (Sanborn - 1929). This was the Donora Food Supply Company building until 1921 when John Jurik and Steve Novotny started the Donora Flour & Feed Company where they sold flour, feed, salt, straw and hay. In 1929, 1938 and 1946, this was Donora Flour & Feed Company. In 1933, Jurik and Novotny started a beer business that sold beer, soft drinks and ice under Jurik & Novotny Importing Beer Distributers. John Jurik's sons Ted started working here in 1931 and Louis in 1939. When John Jurik passed away in 1963, Ted and Louis took over the business under Jurik & Jurik. In 1951, this was Donora Flour & Feed and Jurik & Novatney. In 1954 and 1963, this was Jurik and Novotny Beer Distributer and Feed Store. In 1973 and 1996, this was Jurik & Jurik beer distributers. (GPS: 1004 and 1010 and 1012 Meldon Avenue on the RIGHT)
(GS) Occident Flour - Donora Flour & Feed ghost signs - The building built as the Donora Flour & Feed Co has several ghost signs. On the right-hand side of the building are two signs: the "OCCIDENT FLOUR - Costs More - Worth It" and the "DONORA FLOUR & FEED Co." These signs would have been seen while traveling on the Donora - Webster Bridge. (GPS: 1010 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GS) Jurik - Novotny ghost sign - The building built as the Donora Flour & Feed Co. building has several ghost signs. The "Jurik - Novotny - 1010-12 MELDON AVE" ghost sign is on the front side of the building in the upper left-hand corner above the garage door that dates to perhaps 1921. The building was converted from Donora Flour & Feed Co. business to the Jurik - Novotny beer distributer in 1964 and was owned by Ted Jurik and Elizabeth Novotny. In 1987, the distributer became Jurik and Jurik at the same location. (GPS: 1010 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GS) Occident Flour ghost sign - The building built as the Donora Flour & Feed Company building has several ghost signs. On the left-hand side of the building, is the "DONORA FLOUR & FEED Co. - OCCIDENT FLOUR - Costs More - Worth It" ghost sign that dates to perhaps 1921. (GPS: 1010 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Woodward Motor Company - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, this was the Woodward Motor Company (Sanborn - 1921). In 1929, this was an auto garage (Sanborn - 1929). In 1921 and 1926, this was Woodward Motor Corporation that sold The Nash. In 1929 and 1933, this was Donora Motor Car Company that sold Graham-Paige motor cars and then Fords. In 1926 and 1951 and 1954, this was Abe Ruben & Sons - Ruben Tire Service that dealt with Oldsmobile and Goodyear tires. In 1935, Abe Ruben sold refrigerators and appliances. In 1936, Abe Ruben sold International Trucks. In 1958 and 1974, this was Tenth Street Service Station and Ruben's Garage. In 1976, this was Fox Rubber Company. In 2009 and 2010, this was Tri County Access taxi service and currently still is. (GPS: 1001 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Muia's Green Grill - In 1926, this was Muia's Shoe Repair. This may have also been known as Ferretti's Tavern / Bucket of Blood. In 1974 and 1996 and 2000, this was Muia's Green Grill. This building was razed in 2025 and no longer exists. (GPS: 1025/1031 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Tru-Kraft Cabinet Company - In 1958, this may have been Moderne Refrigeration and Electric. In 1963, this was Tru-Kraft Cabinet Company - Custom-Built Kitchen Cabinets. (GPS: 1061 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
NOTE: Meldon Avenue and Eleventh Street to Thirteenth Street (two blocks)
(GH) auto repair garage - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1929, this was and auto repair garage. In 1946, this was George's Service Garage. (GPS: 1209 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
NOTE: Meldon Avenue and Thirteenth Street to Fourteenth Street
(GH) AS&W Steel Mill bosses houses - These four houses were built between 1902 and 1921 because they were here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). It's unsure if these houses were here in 1902, 1909 or 1914 because Sanborn didn't go this far north on Meldon Avenue (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). These four houses were built by American Steel & Wire as houses for mill bosses. (GPS: Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(48)(GH) Spanish Club – This house was built between 1902 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). It's unsure if this house was here in 1902, 1909 or 1914 because Sanborn didn't go this far north on Meldon Avenue (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). On the hill to the left lies what was once the Spanish Club. Originally built as the home for the Superintendent of American Steel and Wire, it was eventually sold to the Spanish community of Donora as their club house after it was found that living across the street from the Zinc Works wasn’t the most desirable location. Spaniards immigrated to Donora because of their expertise in the Zincing process and lived close to where they worked. Similar to all other ethnic groups in Donora, they formed their own social club in 1924 due to the success of money raised by their Spanish Maroons soccer team. They started the Spanish Benefit Society in 1927. A swimming pool was added for club members in 1964 and still exists but is not operational. This building is no longer the Spanish Club and not being used. In 1974, this was the Spanish Club. (GPS: 1312 Overlook Drive or Meldon Avenue and Thirteenth Street - on the LEFT)
(GH) Percy Law Funeral Home - This house was built between 1902 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). It's unsure if this house was here in 1902, 1909 or 1914 because Sanborn didn't go this far north on Meldon Avenue (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). In 1974 and 1996, this was Percy Law Funeral Home. (GPS: 1324 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(OB)(48)(GH) Gilmore Cemetery – Continue on Meldon Avenue just beyond Fourteenth Street and above the retaining wall on the hill to the left lies Gilmore Cemetery. This cemetery predates Donora’s founding in 1901. The first burial took place around 1804 and also includes some of the original settlers in the area from both sides of the Monongahela River, including one of our area’s first settlers - Peter Castner who was a Revolutionary War veteran. There is also a War of 1812 veteran and over 40 Civil War veterans buried here as well. The cemetery was taken over by the Gilmore family around 1876 and was named after steamboat Captain John Gilmore. During the time that the Zinc Works was operating, no vegetation grew in the cemetery, as well as the whole Donora hillside, causing severe erosion. By the 1930s, the Gilmores ceased any additional burials due to the erosion and loss of vegetation. (GPS: Meldon Avenue before Fourteenth Street - on the LEFT)
NOTE: Meldon Avenue and Fourteenth Street to Fifteenth Street
(GH) Jurik's Bar / Last Chance Bar - This building was built between 1902 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). It's unsure if this building was here in 1902, 1909 or 1914 because Sanborn didn't go this far north on Meldon Avenue (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). In 1921, this was a meat market (Sanborn - 1921). Later, this was Jurik's Bar and then the Last Chance Bar. (GPS: 1409 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Jurik's Meat Market - This building was built between 1902 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). It's unsure if this building was here in 1902, 1909 or 1914 because Sanborn didn't go this far north on Meldon Avenue (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). In 1921, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1951 and 1954, this was Jurik's Cafe. Prior to that, it may have been Jurik's Meat Market. (GPS: 1411 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
NOTE: Meldon Avenue and Fifteenth Street to Spragg Street
(GH) Sam Flash Grocery Market - This building was built between 1902 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). It's unsure if this building was here in 1902, 1909 or 1914 because Sanborn didn't go this far north on Meldon Avenue (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). In 1921, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1926 and 1951, this was the Sam Flash Grocery Market. (GPS: 1505 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Cerini’s Harley-Davidson – Cerini’s Harley-Davidson was founded in 1920 as a Harley- Davidson dealership and repair shop by Ernest Cerini. At one point, it was the oldest family-owned Harley-Davidson dealership east of the Mississippi River. In 1926, Cerini's was located at 1405 Meldon Avenue. This building was built in 1925 and is still owned by the Cerini family but doesn’t sell motorcycles or do repair work anymore. At one time, the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin wanted the storefront and interior for their museum. In 1996 and 2000, this was Cerini's. (GPS: 1507 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GS) Cerini’s Harley-Davidson Service Dept. ghost sign – This isn't really a ghost sign but a sign from Cerini’s Harley-Davidson that used to be here a generation ago. It reads "AUTHORIZED HARLEY-DAVIDSON MOTOR CYCLES - SERVICE DEPT." (GPS: 1507 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GS) Cerini’s Harley-Davidson Storefront ghost sign – This isn't really a ghost sign but a sign from Cerini’s Harley-Davidson that used to be here a generation ago. It reads "HARLEY-DAVIDSON MOTOCYCLE SHOP - Ernest Cerini - 1507 DONORA, PA." (GPS: 1507 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GS) Cerini’s Harley-Davidson ghost sign – There is a Cerini’s Harley-Davidson ghost sign on the right side of the building that reads "HARLEY-DAVIDSON SALES & SERVICE." A few dead vines are still attached to the side of the wall. (GPS: 1507 Meldon Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Harley Owners Group clubhouse - This building was built between 1902 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). It's unsure if this building was here in 1902, 1909 or 1914 because Sanborn didn't go this far north on Meldon Avenue (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). In 1921, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1938, this was Grilli's Bakery for Bread, Cakes and Pastries. In 1974, this was the Donora Bakery. Later, this was the H.O.G. - Harley Owners Group - Donora Chapter clubhouse associated with Cerini’s Harley-Davidson across Meldon Avenue. The Donora Chapter was founded in 1995. (GPS: 1510 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) 1554 Meldon Avenue building- This building was built between 1902 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). It's unsure if this building was here in 1902, 1909 or 1914 because Sanborn didn't go this far north on Meldon Avenue (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). In 1921, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1921). A real estate ad said this building was built in 1902. (GPS: 1554 Meldon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
NOTE: Meldon Avenue and Spragg Street north on Route 837
(GH) Palmer Park main entrance - This main entrance, enhanced with a waterfall and trees in 2011, is not the original entrance to the park. That entrance was further north on Route 837. This winding uphill road once hosted timed auto hill climbs in the 1950s. There is another entrance on the top of the park. (GPS: Meldon Avenue/Route 837 N - on the LEFT)
(GH) Original Palmer Park entrance pillars – These pillars were used as the original Palmer Park entrance from 1920. It held a chain link fence sign that said “Palmer Park.” As the Steel Mill continued to dump slag and change the topography of the park, the entrance was eventually relocated to its current site. The Donora Historical Society has an original photo and blueprints from 1920 of this entrance. (GPS: Meldon Avenue/Route 837 N - on the LEFT)
(GH) Donora Southern Railroad trestle – The Donora Southern Railroad trestle was used by the Donora Southern Railroad to carry cars from the steel mill over Route 837 to the original Palmer Park site to dump slag using slag pot cars, as well as connect to other tracks that would traverse the hillside toward Monongahela via the Vang Tunnels. Built in 1924, the trestle is not used by trains anymore and the Donora Southern Railroad no longer exists, but the Vang Tunnels still exist, however they are abandoned. The approach ramp to the trestle near the Mon River was originally made of slag from the steel mill. After passing beneath the trestle, consider going down to the first right to turnaround that will enable you to backtrack on 837S back toward Donora. (GPS: Meldon Avenue/Route 837 N - overhead)
(GS) Donora Southern Railroad Company trestle ghost sign – This is not really a ghost sign but the cornerstone on the Donora Southern Railroad Company (D.S.R.R. Co.) trestle confirming it was indeed built in 1924. (GPS: n/a - on the LEFT)
MELDON AVENUE - Finish
NOTE 8: You are welcome to turnaround on Route 837N that goes to Monongahela and will enable you to return back into town, but plan to turnaround back to the Palmer Park entrance on 837 South or Meldon Avenue to re-enter Donora and to resume your tour.
PALMER PARK - Start
NOTE: Meldon Avenue back to the Palmer Park Entrance
 (GH) Damon T. Garde Memorial Stage - As you continue on the road up the hill, an outdoor covered stage measuring 60 by 30 feet can be seen on the right. The stage was named after Damon T. Garde, who was born on August 11, 1964, but passed away on Oct. 22, 2006, at the age of 42. The stage was the idea of Mayor “Chummy” Lignelli and paid for by memorial gifts from friends and family of Damon. On what would have been his 43rd birthday, the stage was dedicated to his memory on August 11, 2007. Starting in 1988, Damon was a mailman in Upper St. Clair who always had a smile on his face, and who left a legacy of good deeds while on his route until his untimely death. Damon was also a volleyball player, avid photographer and environmentalist. (GPS: on the RIGHT)
(GH) Lignelli Pavilion - The road will bear to the left and you’ll see the large circular, red-roofed Lignelli Pavilion in the distance constructed in 2008 and named after longtime Mayor John “Chummy” Lignelli. Lignelli was a Donora Borough Councilman for 16 years, 12 years as Council President. In 1994, he was elected to his first of six terms as mayor and mayor for an additional 19 years until his retirement in 2013 when he was 92 years old, one of the oldest individuals to hold public office in the commonwealth of Pennsylvania and being named "Mayor of the Year" in 1998. Born in nearby Manown, Lignelli died in 2016 at the age of 95 years old. Lignelli is also recognized at the Donora Public Library. (GPS: on the LEFT)
(SM) Stan “The Man” Musial Baseball Field - To the right of the Lignelli Pavilion is the Stan “The Man” Musial Baseball Field. Musial was here for the field dedication in 1994. (GPS: on the LEFT)
(GH)(SM)(KG) Palmer Park – This was one of Donora’s original parks built in 1920 by the American Steel and Wire Company and named after President William Palmer. Donora High School played football here for ten years from 1920 to 1929. Stan Musial played for the steel mill baseball league Donora Zincs here in the 1930s. A dance pavilion that once existed hosted performers such as Guy Lombardo and his band and vocalist Perry Como. At one time, there was a baseball/football field that Stan Musial and Ken Griffey, Sr. played on and was located where the soccer fields are now, however, Palmer Park was rehabbed tremendously in the 1980s after a strip mining operation and looks nothing like it did back then except for the portion as you descend into the park where the tennis courts are to the right and the swing set and slide are to the left. The larger soccer field was once used by an international soccer team for practice before playing at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh.120-acre park. (GPS: n/a)
(GH) Larry Senko Walking Trail – Near the rear entrance into the park and across the road from the tennis courts, on the left you’ll see a large rock that identifies the Larry Senko Walking Trail. Senko was a Donora native and a victim in New York City on 9/11 in the World Trade Center working on the 102nd floor. The one-mile trail was dedicated on the 10th Anniversary of 9/11 in 2011 as a memorial to Senko. (GPS: on the LEFT)
(GH) Palmer Park rear entrance - From W. 9th Street, depending on your direction of travel, you can make a right/left at the stop sign and yellow diamond Palmer Park sign onto 3rd Avenue. Continue down, then up, then down 3rd Avenue. This is the rear entrance into Palmer Park (GPS: from 3rd Avenue)
PALMER PARK - Finish
NOTE 9: At this point you may consider returning back down to Route 837 or Meldon Avenue, going down to Tenth Street, making a right and going up two blocks to Thompson Avenue.
THOMPSON AVENUE - Start
You will be heading south on Route 837 on Thompson Avenue. Thompson is another street through Donora.Â
THOMPSON AVENUE - If you made a right on Tenth Street at Meldon Avenue, and went two blocks, you can turn left onto Thompson Avenue. Thompson Avenue starts at First Street and goes north all the way through Donora for ten blocks to Tenth Street but is mostly a one-way street that goes south. We start the driving tour at Tenth Street. You will be heading south.
You will be heading south on Route 837 on Thompson Avenue. Thompson is another street through Donora.Â
THOMPSON AVENUE - If you made a right on Tenth Street at Meldon Avenue, and went two blocks, you can turn left onto Thompson Avenue. Thompson Avenue starts at First Street and goes north all the way through Donora for ten blocks to Tenth Street but is mostly a one-way street that goes south. We start the driving tour at Tenth Street. You will be heading south.
NOTE: Thompson Avenue and Tenth Street to Ninth Street
(GH) St. John's Episcopal Church - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). An Episcopal mission held services in other churches and rented halls as early as 1901. St. John's Episcopal Church was founded in 1915. In April 1924, two lots at Tenth Street and Thompson Avenue were purchased and construction of their own church was started under the direction of Donora Zinc Works Superintendent M. Mercer Neale. The cornerstone was laid on March 14, 1925, and dedicated in September. An addition was built in 1933. The church was deconsecrated in 2022 after 97 years. The building is no longer a church. (GPS: 996 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GS) St. John's Episcopal Church - M. M. Neale Plaque - This is not a real ghost sign. Once mounted inside of St. John's Episcopal Church was a bronze plaque dedicated to one of the first superintendents of the Donora Zinc Works M. Mercer Neale who directed the building of this church. Since it lists his death year of 1968, we assume the plaque is from the late 1960s. In 2025, the plaque was donated to the Donora Historical Society and is preserved in the Smog Museum. (GPS: 996 Thompson Avenue)
(GS) St. John's Episcopal Church - Hans Spence Plaque - This is not a real ghost sign. Once mounted inside of St. John's Episcopal Church in the foyer was a bronze plaque dedicated to Hans Spence who was instrumental in building the church. We assume the plaque is from the late 1920s. In 2025, the plaque was donated to the Donora Historical Society and is preserved in the Smog Museum. (GPS: 996 Thompson Avenue)
NOTE: Thompson Avenue and Ninth Street to Eighth Street
(GH) Rabe's Funeral Home - This house was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1951, this was the original site of the James A. Rabe Funeral Home. (GPS: 803 Thompson Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Calvary United Presbyterian Church - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). The First Presbyterian Church was organized in 1902 and chartered in 1904. They erected a church building at Eighth Street and Thompson Avenue in 1904. In 1906, the Central Presbyterian Church of Donora (formerly Cumberland Presbyterian Church), which had organized in 1902, merged with the First Presbyterian Church. In 1960, the congregation of Calvary United Presbyterian Church was formed by a merger of the former First United Presbyterian at Ninth Street and McKean Avenue and former First Presbyterian churches. In 1975, the church enlarged the sanctuary. The church closed and in 2022, this building became the Salvation Army Mon Valley Worship and Service Center. (GPS: 800 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Eighth Street Steps - At the corner of Eighth Street and Thompson Avenue is the start of 100 steps that connects Eighth Street to Heslep Avenue arriving across the street from St. Nicholas Greek Church. By walking up the steps, you'll arrive at the corner of Heslep Avenue and close to St. Nicholas Drive. At this point, Eighth Street is a block south of St. Nicholas Drive. These steps are no longer being used and are blocked at both the top and bottom. (GPS: across the street from 800 Thompson Avenue and Eighth Street - on the RIGHT)
(OB)(GH) DeRienzo Funeral Home - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1946, this was the DeRienzo Funeral Home. (GPS: 803 Thompson Avenue - on the RIGHT)
NOTE: Thompson Avenue and Eighth Street to Seventh Street
(OB)(GH) De Rienzo Funeral Home - This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1951 and 1994 and 2000, this was the De Rienzo Funeral Home. (GPS: 782 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Donora Masonic Temple #5967 - This building was built in 1967 and is now the Tri-County Masonic Temple #252. (GPS: 760 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)Â
(GH) Caponecchia Apartments and Cafe - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1951, this was Caponecchia Cafe. (GPS: 740 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(OB)(GH) St. Charles Roman Catholic Church Rectory - This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1921 and 1929, it was the St. Charles Roman Catholic Church Rectory (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). (GPS: 735 Thompson Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(OB)(48)(GH) James A. Rabe Funeral Home – This home was built in 1901 and is one of Donora's original homes. Originally built as a home for banker R. L. Biddle, and then called the Patterson home, it transformed into the Lawson Funeral Home, then the Lawson-Rabe Funeral Home and then the James A. Rabe Funeral Home. In 1951 and 1957, this was the Lawson Funeral Home. In 1963 and 1974, this was Lawson-Rabe Funeral Home. In 1994 and 1996, this was James A. Rabe Funeral Home. (GPS: 701 Thompson Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Seventh Street Steps - Lower Set - At the corner of Seventh Street and Highland Avenue is the start of 90 steps that reconnects Seventh Street. By walking up the steps, you'll arrive at the corner of Seventh Street and Heslep Avenue. If you drive, Highland Avenue turns into Heslep Avenue. On the inside of the curve of Highland/Heslep Avenue on the right is a home that dates to the beginning of Donora in 1901. These are the lower set of Seventh Street Steps. There is another upper set. (GPS: to the left of 701 Thompson Avenue and across Seventh Street - on the RIGHT)
NOTE: Thompson Avenue and Seventh Street to Sixth Street
(GH) Albert Erdelyi - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). It had a storefront on Thompson Avenue and several on Seventh Street. In 1909, 209 Seventh Street was a tailor, 211 Seventh Street was a dress maker, 213 and 215 Seventh Street was a jewelry store, and 217 Seventh Street was a grocery store on the corner (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, 209 Seventh Street was a grocery store, 211 Seventh Street was a dress maker, 213 and 215 Seventh Street was vacant, and 217 Seventh Street was vacant on the corner (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, 209 Seventh Street was a grocery store, 211 Seventh Street was a dress maker and millinery, 213 Seventh Street was a second-hand furniture store, and 215 Seventh Street was vacant on the corner (Sanborn - 1914). In 1926, Albert Erdelyi Real Estate, Insurance and Justice of the Peace. In 1973, 207 Seventh Street was John S, McCans Real Estate and Insurance Agency. In 1974 and 1996, the side entrance at 215 Seventh Street was Paul M. Petro Attorney. (GPS: 682 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Shoe Shop - This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1902 and 1909, a shoe cobbler shack was next door to the right of this building (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1914, this was a shoe cobbler (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a shoe shop (Sanborn - 1921). In 1926, Capone Shoe Repair was here. In 1951, this was Ray's Shoe Repair Shop. (GPS: 678 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(OB)(GH) J.F. Bergman Wholesale and Retail - This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was a meat market (Sanborn - 1902). In 1921, this was a electrical supply store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1928 and 1936, 655 Thompson Avenue was J.F. Bergman - a dealer in country eggs and grade A raw milk - Tuberculin Tested. In 1939 and 1942, 655 Thompson Avenue was Naugle's Dairy. (GPS: 655 Thompson Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(SM)(OB)(GH) Polish Falcons Lodge - Nest 247 – This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this building was vacant probably because it had just been built (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was a piano store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was a furniture warehouse (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921 and 1929, this was a store of some sort (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). Polish Falcons Lodge - Nest 247 is a Polish American fraternal club where a young Stan Musial learned gymnastics and track and field as an early teen at the encouragement of his father Lucacz. In the 1920s and 1930s, Nest 247 dominated their competition at track and field and gymnastics events. Musial credits the Falcons for giving him his early coordination, strength and timing that helped him in baseball. It is believed that this is Nest 247 location since 1923 and is still open. Musial was a paying member until his passing in 2013. In 1951 and 1974, this was the Polish Falcons and currently still is. (GPS: 654 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Home Baking Company - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921 and 1929, this was a bakery (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1939 and 1951, this was the Home Baking Company owned by Simo Mitreff who made wedding and party cakes. (GPS: 632 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(OB)(GH) 628 Thompson Avenue building - This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was a grocery store with a bakery shed in the backyard (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909 and 1914, this was a bakery (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). By 1921, it had become a house (Sanborn - 1921). (GPS: 628 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(OB)(GH) 626 Thompson Avenue building - This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was a millinery (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was vacant (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a plumbing store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1928 and 1929, 626 Thompson Avenue was Linn R. Wickerham Plumbing and Heating. In 1951, this was Donora Plumbing & Heating Supplies (GPS: 624 and 626 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(OB)(GH) 622 Thompson Avenue building - This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was a plumbing store (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was a meat market (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was vacant (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a meat market (Sanborn - 1921). In 1926, this was the Donora Dairy Company. (GPS: 622 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(48)(GH) Dr. William Rongaus and Dr. Walter Rongaus office - This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). right is a yellow/orange brick home. This was the home/office of Dr. William Rongaus (Dr. Bill) who was one of the first to vocally express to the townspeople and his patients to get out of Donora during the 1948 Smog. He also did multiple interviews around the country on the 1948 Smog event. In 1974, this was Dr. Walter and Dr. William (Bill) Rongaus medical office. In 1994 and 2000, this was Dr. Walter Bobak's medical office. (GPS: 602 Thompson Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(OB)(GH)(SM) E. G. Sturgis Furniture and Undertaking Building - Built in 1901 or 1902, this is one of Donora's original structures (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902 and 1909, this was a furniture and undertaking business (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1914 and 1921 and 1929, this was an undertaking business (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921 and 1929). Originally built to house the E. G. Sturgis Furniture and Undertaking business where they also sold caskets and conducted embalming. In 1909, J. A. Rabe was a Funeral Director here. In 1911, this was Jas. A. Rabe Furniture. The organization of St. Dominic's Roman Catholic Church also started here. In 1923 and 1938, the James A. Rabe Funeral Home and his Yellow Cab Company was here. In 1944, the basement became the home of the St. Dominic's Men's Club at 600 Rear Thompson Avenue. Testimonial dinners for Stan Musial were held here. (GPS: 600 and 604 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
NOTE: Thompson Avenue and SIxth Street to Fifth Street
(GH)(SM) St. Dominic’s Roman Catholic Church – This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1902, the original wooden church was here (Sanborn - 1902). This is the former St. Dominic’s Roman Catholic Church. It is the church where Stan Musial’s mother Mary Lancos would have gone before she was married. The birth of the St. Dominic parish occurred in 1902 for those of Slovak origin. Properties at Sixth Street and Thompson Avenue were purchased late that summer and during September the wooden structure fronting on Thompson Avenue was remodeled into a church making it the first Catholic church in Donora and the first Slovak church in the Upper Monongahela Valley. In 1903, additional property was purchased for a rectory and fifteen acres of land in Carroll Township was bought for use as a cemetery. In 1905, the original church was dismantled and the first services in the newly completed church were held on Easter Sunday in 1906. St. Dominic School reopened in 1915 in the basement of the church with the Vincentian Sisters of Charity of Perrysville in charge. In 1955, a new two-story parish school was constructed in the rear of the church. When church consolidation occurred in 2011, St. Dominic's was closed, and the building was sold as a private residence. (GPS: 575 Thompson Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) St. Dominic’s Roman Catholic Church Rectory – This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). This was the St. Dominic’s Roman Catholic Church Rectory. (GPS: 573 Thompson Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) St. Dominic’s Roman Catholic Church School – St. Dominic School reopened in 1915 in the basement of the church with the Vincentian Sisters of Charity of Perrysville in charge. In 1929, the school was located here in a home that also served as a convent for the sisters (Sanborn - 1929). In 1955, a new two-story parish school was constructed in the rear of the church. When church consolidation occurred in 2011, St. Dominic's was closed, and the building was sold as a private residence. (GPS: 575 Thompson Avenue rear on Sixth Street - on the RIGHT)
(KG)(GH) Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. home #1 – This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). Across the street from the former church is a non-descript house in disrepair with a yellow fiberglass awning. In 1954, 576 Thompson Avenue was John Vince Barber Shop. The Griffeys moved there when Ken Jr. was one or around 1970, and until Ken Sr. made it with the Reds and relocated the family to Cincinnati when Ken Jr. was five or around 1974. See Ken Griffey Sr. and Ken Griffey Jr. home #2 further in the tour. In 1974, 576 Thompson Avenue was Mary's Beauty Salon. In 1994 and 1996, this was Two J's Diner. (GPS: 574 and 576 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) 572 Thompson Avenue building - This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1914 and 1921, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921).Â
Novelist Thomas Bell from nearby Braddock, Pennsylvania, would often visit his relatives in Donora, the Shedlock family, in an upstairs apartment of this building. In the late 1930s, Bell actually stayed with the Shedlocks for close to a year while he worked in the Donora Wire Works. In 1941, Bell would publish his fourth novel and best-known work titled, "Out of This Furnace". The novel is set in Braddock, a steel town just east of Pittsburgh, along the Monongahela River. The novel, at times, is also briefly set in Donora. Based upon Bell's own family of Rusyn and Slovak immigrants, the story follows three generations of a family, starting with their migration in 1881 from Austria-Hungary to the United States, and finishing with World War II. The novel focuses on the steelworkers' attempt to unionize from 1889, the first Homestead strike through the big Homestead Steel Strike of 1892, the Great Steel Strike of 1919 right after World War I, and the events of the 1930s. Struggle, poverty, discrimination, and other forces beyond the characters' control tell the story of a troubled group of people. Quotes from "Out of This Furnace" appear throughout this website here: Steel Mill and Zinc Works and here: 1948 Smog. (GPS: 572 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
Novelist Thomas Bell from nearby Braddock, Pennsylvania, would often visit his relatives in Donora, the Shedlock family, in an upstairs apartment of this building. In the late 1930s, Bell actually stayed with the Shedlocks for close to a year while he worked in the Donora Wire Works. In 1941, Bell would publish his fourth novel and best-known work titled, "Out of This Furnace". The novel is set in Braddock, a steel town just east of Pittsburgh, along the Monongahela River. The novel, at times, is also briefly set in Donora. Based upon Bell's own family of Rusyn and Slovak immigrants, the story follows three generations of a family, starting with their migration in 1881 from Austria-Hungary to the United States, and finishing with World War II. The novel focuses on the steelworkers' attempt to unionize from 1889, the first Homestead strike through the big Homestead Steel Strike of 1892, the Great Steel Strike of 1919 right after World War I, and the events of the 1930s. Struggle, poverty, discrimination, and other forces beyond the characters' control tell the story of a troubled group of people. Quotes from "Out of This Furnace" appear throughout this website here: Steel Mill and Zinc Works and here: 1948 Smog. (GPS: 572 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Schwerha's Dairy - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909 and 1914, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1921 and 1929, this was a milk depot (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1921, this was Schwerha's Dairy for milk, cream, butter, eggs and cheese. In 1926, this was Schwerha's Dairy / Andrew's Dairy - Pasteurized Milk & Cream. (GPS: 564 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(OB)(GH) Chinese Laundry - This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921 and 1929, this was a Chinese Laundry (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921 and 1929). In 1944 and 1946, this was Ann's Beauty Salon. (GPS: 558 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(OB)(48)(GH) Schwerha Funeral Home – This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this building was vacant probably because it was just built (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909 and 1914, this was a boarding home (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1921, this was some sort of club house (Sanborn - 1921). This was the Schwerha Funeral Home. An iconic photo was taken during the 1948 Smog that shows the porch/portico filled with memorial flowers of those that died during the Smog and were being handled by Schwerha’s. In 1929, 1935, 1941, 1951,1954 and 1963, this was Schwerha Funeral Home. The funeral home still contains burial records for all the people that were buried through Schwerha’s, including those of the 1948 Smog. In 1973 and 1996, this was Paul Macik Funeral Home. It is now the House of Jackson Funeral Home. (GPS: 546 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(OB)(GH) Lapes Wallpaper and Paints - This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921, this building was grocery store (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921). In 1929, this was a tin smith (Sanborn - 1929). In 1929, 1936 and 1938 and 1941, this was Girman Brothers Sheet and Metal Work and warm air furnace. In 1941 and 1943, this was John Girman HVAC, roof and sheet metal work. In 1944 and 1946, this was Girman & Kayda HVAC, roof and sheet metal work. In 1946 and 1951, this was Lapes Wallpaper and Paints. (GPS: 542 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(OB)(GH) 536 Thompson Avenue building - This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was a clothing and boots and shoe store (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was a fruit market (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was a confectionary or candy store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was some sort of club house (Sanborn - 1921). In 1929, this building was vacant (Sanborn - 1929). In 1974, this was Mary Ann's Beauty Salon. (GPS: 536 and 538 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) First Methodist Episcopel Church - The First United Methodist Church had its beginning in a chapel in West Columbia in October 1900. The present church, at Fifth Street and Thompson Avenue, was constructed in January 1903 and dedicated in 1904. On the church's 100th Anniversary on June 29, 2003, after one final service, the church closed. The baptismal fount purchased in 1923 by local funeral home director James A. Rabe is preserved in the Smog Museum. This building was razed in 2025 and no longer exists. The cornerstone was relocated to the front lawn of the Donora Public Library. The time capsule and some stained-glass windows are being preserved by the Donora Historical Society. (GPS: 501 Thompson Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Fifth Street Steps – At the intersection of Thompson Avenue and Fifth Street, you'll see what most Donorans refer to as the Fifth Street steps. There are two sets. The steps (187 total) on the left have risers of just four inches high. Most steps today have risers between seven to eight inches high which you'll see in the steps (104 total) to the right. These four-inch steps were engineered to accommodate women who wore hobble skirts (around 1908-1914) - a long and tight skirt style that restricted ladies from lifting their legs very far. To read more - Atlas Obscura - 5th Street Steps. (GPS: Thompson Avenue and Seventh Street - on the RIGHT)
NOTE: Thompson Avenue and Fifth Street to Fourth Street
(OB)(GH) Mullin Building - Built in 1900 by J.N. Mullin, this building is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). This building faces Fifth Street. In 1902, 211 and 213 Fifth Street was a dry goods store, 215 and 217 Fifth Street was a grocery store, 219 and 221 Fifth Street was where the Bank of Donora was founded before it moved across Fifth Street, and 223 and 225 Fifth Street was a dry goods store (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, 211 and 213 Fifth Street was a dry goods store, 215 and 217 Fifth Street was a grocery store, 219 and 221 Fifth Street was a meat market, and 223 and 225 Fifth Street was an insurance office (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, 211 and 213 Fifth Street was a dry goods and clothing store, 215 and 217 Fifth Street was a grocery store, 219 and 221 Fifth Street was a grocery store, and 223 and 225 Fifth Street was an insurance office (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, 211 and 213 Fifth Street was a dry goods and clothing store, 215 and 217 Fifth Street was a grocery store, 219 and 221 Fifth Street was a bakery, and 223 and 225 Fifth Street was an undertaker's office (Sanborn - 1921). R. M. Munson came to Donora and worked for Greensboro Natural Gas Company and was in charge of piping the town for that company. When the gas plant was finished, he opened his business in this building where he specialized in plumbing, gas and steam fitting, and hardware. In 1921, 219 Fifth Street was Barker Bakery System - Barker Bread. In 1923 and 1925, 219 Fifth Street was J. Glenn Baker for automobile insurance and titles. In 1937, 217 Fifth Street was Donora Printing Company. In 1938 and 1944, 217 Fifth Street was R. E. Koehler Commercial Printing. In 1951, 225 Fifth Street was Stanley Music & Appliance Store. (GPS: 221 Fifth Street and Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(OB)(GH) Dr. Lewis Home and Doctor's Office - Built between 1901 and 1902, this house is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). Dr. Lewis was the first doctor in Donora who made this house his home and office until 1947. (GPS: 445 Thompson Avenue - on RIGHT)
(OB)(GH) 429 Thompson Avenue building - Built between 1901 and 1902, this building is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was a plumbing store (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was a tailor and cobbler shop (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921 and 1929, this was the Gospel Hall and a cobbler shop (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1936 and 1938, this may have been Stacey's Shoe Shop for shoe repair. (GPS: 429 Thompson Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(OB)(GH) 427 Thompson Avenue building - Built between 1901 and 1902, this building is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was a barber shop (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914 and 1921, this was a jewelry store (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). (GPS: 427 Thompson Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(OB)(GH) Ferguson building - Built between 1901 and 1902, this building is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909 and 1914 and 1921, this was a pool room (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914 and 1921). The Ferguson Company's Grocery Store was located in this building built between 1901 and 1902 by George Ferguson. In 1926, this was Michael Yatsko Billiard Hall. In 1946, this was Virginia's Beauty Shop. The second and third floors house apartments just like back in 1902. (GPS: 401 Thompson Avenue and Fourth Street - on the RIGHT)
(OB)(GH) Barber Shop - Built between 1901 and 1902, this building is one of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was a paint store (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909 and 1914, this was vacant (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1921, this was a fruit market (Sanborn - 1921). In 1974, this was a Costa's Barber Shop. (GPS: 400 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
NOTE: Thompson Avenue and Fourth Street to Second Street
(GH) Lithuanian Citizens' Club - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921 and 1929, this was the Lithuanian Citizens Hall (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1926 it was the Lithuanian Hall. At some point, it became the Catholic War Veteran's Club. In 2000, this was Happy Daze bar. In 1994 and 1996, this was the Dragon's Lair Bar. It is now The Avenue on Thompson. (GPS: 324 Thompson Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Thompson Avenue Bridge – In 1902, the bridge was not here, and Thompson Avenue was not graded down to Third Street (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909 and 1914, the original bridge that carried Thompson Avenue over Third Street was wooden (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1921 and 1929, the bridge (viaduct) was steel and concrete (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1909, a wooden bridge was built here to level off Thompson Avenue over the Third Street Hollow. In 1915, a steel bridge was built to replace the wooden bridge. In 1975, the steel bridge was replaced by the current concrete bridge.Â
On Monday, November 9, 1903, Donora Police Officer Isaac "Bub" Johnston was ambushed and shot while walking his beat at the Third Street Hollow, near Thompson Hollow, by someone who was with a large group of people, some say as revenge for an out-of-control wedding that led to a shooting and murder near Gilmore Cemetery in 1902. The entire group fled to a nearby home, where a posse located them and attempted to make entry when someone inside opened fire, wounding two citizens in the posse. Seven men were eventually arrested and charged with Officer Johnston's murder who died on November 10, 1903, at 43 years old and buried in the Gilmore Cemetery. (GPS: Thompson Avenue between Fourth Street and Second Street)
On Monday, November 9, 1903, Donora Police Officer Isaac "Bub" Johnston was ambushed and shot while walking his beat at the Third Street Hollow, near Thompson Hollow, by someone who was with a large group of people, some say as revenge for an out-of-control wedding that led to a shooting and murder near Gilmore Cemetery in 1902. The entire group fled to a nearby home, where a posse located them and attempted to make entry when someone inside opened fire, wounding two citizens in the posse. Seven men were eventually arrested and charged with Officer Johnston's murder who died on November 10, 1903, at 43 years old and buried in the Gilmore Cemetery. (GPS: Thompson Avenue between Fourth Street and Second Street)
(GH) Church at Second Street and Thompson Avenue - This building was not on the 1929 Sanborn map (Sanborn - 1929). In 1927, the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints built this church at Second Street and Thompson Avenue. This building no longer serves the congregation of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints but is a nondenominational church. In 1976, it was the Gospel Hall. (GPS: 201 Thompson Avenue - on the RIGHT)
NOTE: Thompson Avenue and Second Street to First Street
(GH) Ohav Sholom Jewish Synagogue / Mon Valley Youth & Teen - This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). Between 1921 and 1929, the rear portion school room was added. The rear portion was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). A small group of Jews, who were mostly Hungarian immigrants but were also Lithuanian, Polish and German, founded the Donora Hebrew Congregation Ohav Sholom in 1901, chartered in 1903 and established a cemetery in Carroll Township in 1904. The Orthodox congregation was among the first in the mid-Monongahela River valley and first worshipped in a rented storeroom at 320 McKean Avenue before breaking ground on a $15,000 synagogue on Thompson Avenue in 1911. The two-story building had classrooms downstairs and a sanctuary upstairs. During a renovation in the 1930s, the basement was converted into a social hall and kitchen. In 1965, the congregation was officially renamed Ohav Sholom Congregation of Donora but disbanded in 1993 due to a declining Jewish American population. The congregation donated their synagogue to the Campfire Boys and Girls of Mon Valley. The congregation moved to the Temple Beth Am in nearby Monessen but that too eventually closed. The former synagogue building is now a very active Mon Valley Youth and Teen Center that evolved from the Campfire Boys and Girls of Mon Valley, and portions of the building were restored through grants. (GPS: 160 and 162 Thompson Avenue or 137 Second Street - on the LEFT)
(GH) Ohav Sholom Jewish Cemetery – The Donora Hebrew Congregation Ohav Sholom established the Ohav Sholom Cemetery in nearby Carroll Township in 1904. The red brick chapel, whose wrought iron gate is adorned with the Star of David, was built in 1930. The Orthodox congregation was among the first in the mid-Monongahela River valley and initially drew congregants from the nearby towns of Monessen, Monongahela, Charleroi and Belle Vernon. The cemetery is NOT in Donora. If you decide to visit it, you can follow the GPS address. (GPS: 928 State Route 837, Monongahela, Pennsylvania, 15063 on the LEFT from Donora)
(GH) Kochanowski / Kenda's Barber Shop - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, this was a barber shop (Sanborn - 1921). Joseph Kochanowski moved to Donora in 1915 and worked as a barber. In the late 19-teens, he opened his barber shop and clothing store here. It's uncertain if he built this building. He and his family lived in the upstairs apartment. He closed the shop in 1929 or 1930 due to the Great Depression and moved to Aliquippa to find work in the steel mills. In 1937 and 1951, this was John Kenda's Barber Shop. In 1946, this was John Kenda Jewelry and Watches. (GPS: 139 and 143 Thompson Avenue - on the RIGHT)
THOMPSON AVENUE - Finish
The next few streets go up the hill in Donora or from east to west.
CHESTNUT / WALNUT STREET - Start
You will be heading west from McKean Avenue or uphill.Â
You will be heading west from McKean Avenue or uphill.Â
(GH) Lee Sala Home - This house was built between 1902 and 1921 because it was here in 1921. Sanborn did not document this part of town prior to 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). If you take Chestnut Street up the hill (or due west) to Mellon Avenue, you'll see the home of boxer Lee Sala. Born in Donora in 1926 on the left in this duplex, Lee was on target t graduate from Donora High School in 1944 but went off to war before that happened. Lee enlisted in the United States Navy during WWII and saw action in the south Pacific. But while in high school, Lee, who came from a family of fighters, tried his hand at the "sweet science." Lee credited his desire to box to his older cousins, brothers Bruno and Lebro Sala who were both professional boxers in the 1920s and 1930s. While in the service, Lee won the Navy Olympic Amateur Championship in boxing of north Japan. Around the same time, Lee's older brother Tony was an All-American football player at Villanova University, as well as intercollegiate boxing champion four years in a row. After WWII, Sala turned to professional boxing. Sala would go on to be a leading contender in the middleweight division whose professional career spanned from 1946 to 1953 with a record of 76 wins (48 by knockout), 7 losses, and 0 draws. Sala was ranked a top-10 middleweight contender for five years (1948-53), reaching as high as the number six spot. (GPS: 122 Mellon Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Borough of Donora Incinerator - This building was built between 1902 and 1929 because it was here in 1929. Sanborn did not document this part of town prior to 1921 (Sanborn - 1921). Continue up Chestnut Street to Modisette Avenue which would be the beginning of Cement City. Make a left and go down one block to Pine Alley. On the right you'll see a locked gate. Donora burned its garbage at this incinerator at the end of Pine Alley behind Cement City. Pine Alley was originally supposed to be part of the Cement City planned community, but that never happened after the first 80 Cement City units were built. The actual incinerator smokestack cannot be seen from Modisette Avenue. To see it, you must hike in on foot because the gate is normally locked to vehicle traffic. This site was last used to burn garbage around 1951. After, Donora buried some of its garbage in a landfill at Palmer Park from 1951 to 1974. Large stones from the piers of the Donora-Webster Bridge are also stored on this site. (GPS: Pine Alley off of Modisette Avenue or 521 Pine Street - on the RIGHT)
(KG)(GH) Highland Terrace - Return back to Modisette Avenue and continue one black to the entrance of Highland Terrace at Galleton Drive, a low-income public housing plan built in 1952. Major League Baseball great Ken Griffey Sr., along with his siblings, were raised in this neighborhood by their single mother. Turn around and return back to Chestnut Street and make a left. (GPS: Galleton Drive - on the LEFT)
(GH)(SM) Cement City – These houses were built between 1914 and 1921 because they were here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). If you take Chestnut Street up the hill (or due west), between the Donora Veterans Memorial and the Cement City historic marker and continue to Modisette Avenue, you'll pass through Donora’s National Historic District that was built in 1916-17 and was the invention of Thomas A. Edison. In the fall, we conduct our annual Cement City Home and Walking Tours. Stan Musial played sandlot baseball on a field that used to be between Helen Avenue (uppermost street) and Begler Alley, when his Heslep All-Stars would play the Cement City Cardinals. Continue up on Chestnut Street and make a right on Helen Avenue and make another right to backtrack down Walnut Street (or due east) to return back to McKean Avenue and make a left on McKean Avenue to continue into Donora. (GPS: Chestnut Street/Walnut Street and head west up to Modisette Avenue, Ida Avenue, Bertha Avenue)
(GS) Cement City - National Register of Historic Places Plaque - This is not a real ghost sign. On select houses this plaque appears by the front door. (GPS: Chestnut Street/Walnut Street and head west up to Modisette Avenue, Ida Avenue, Bertha Avenue)
(GH) Sickles Market - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1938, this was Murray's Food Store. In 1974, this was Sickles Market. (GPS: 100 Modisette Avenue and Walnut Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Lou Suppo's Store / Carly's - This building was built after 1929 because it was not here in 1929 (Sanborn - 1929). This was an Atlanta & Pacific Tea Company grocery store (A&P). This was Lou Suppo's Dairy Bar. In 1980 and 2000, this was Del Suppo, Inc. (GPS: 512 McCrea Avenue)
CHESTNUT / WALNUT STREET - Finish
FIRST STREET - Start
You will be heading west from Meldon Avenue or uphill.
You will be heading west from Meldon Avenue or uphill.
(GH) Ulice Payne, Jr. Home – On First Street between McKean Avenue and Meldon Avenue to your right and on the right at 111 First Street you’ll see a little white sided house to the right of a red house. This is the home of Ulice Payne, Jr. Rather than driving down First Street, you may just consider parking on McKean Avenue to stop and take a quick look. Payne graduated from Ringgold High School/Donora Campus in 1973 and was All-State in basketball after leading his team to the WPIAL championship. Payne went to Marquette University and played for the 1977 NCAA Basketball Championship for Coach Al McGuire. Drafted and then cut by the NBA Detroit Pistons, Payne went on to earn his law degree in 1982 and make his home in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Following law school, Payne joined a private firm as a securities lawyer and in 1985 was appointed Commissioner of Securities for the State of Wisconsin, the first African American to hold the position. Payne then joined Foley & Lardner, the 11th largest law firm in the United States and largest in Wisconsin and became the firm’s first African American managing partner. In 2002 Payne made history when he became the first African American CEO and president of Major League Baseball’s Milwaukee Brewers. Since 2004, Payne serves as the President of Addison-Clifton LLC in Milwaukee. (GPS: 111 First Street - on the LEFT)
(GH) Emanual Baptist Church - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921 and 1929, this was the Emanual Baptist Church (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). This building was built in 1914-1915 as the Emanual Baptist Church and would stay here until 1949. Later, it was the Quinn Chapel A. M. E. (African Methodist Episcopal) Church (1900-1991). The church is now occupied by the Holy Rider Assembly of Christ. Across Watkins Avenue was the First Hungarian Reformed Presbyterian Church at 325 First Street. (GPS: 317 First Street - on the LEFT)
(GH) Jacoby / Mano Lichtenstein Groceries and Meats - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1927, this was E.D. Jacoby Groceries and Cold Meats. In 1935 and 1951 this was Mano Lichtenstein Groceries and Meats. In 1938, Mano Lichtenstein Groceries and Meats was a United Service Food Store. (GPS: 400 First Street - on the RIGHT)
(GS) Jacoby / Mano Lichtenstein ACOB ghost sign - In 1927 this was E.D. Jacoby Groceries and Cold Meats. The letters A-C-O-B appear on the windows above the storefront window as a ghost sign. The J and the Y of JACOBY are blocked out. (GPS: 400 First Street - on the RIGHT)
(GS) Jacoby / Mano Lichtenstein Ice Cream ghost sign - This "We Serve Ice Cream" ghost sign appears over the front door of the Jacoby / Mano Lictenstein storefront. We are unsure if it dates to when the store was the E.D. Jacoby Groceries and Cold Meats store or when it was the Mano Lichtenstein Groceries and Meats store. (GPS: 400 First Street - on the RIGHT)
FIRST STREET - Finish
SECOND STREET - Start
You will be heading west from McKean Avenue or uphill.Â
You will be heading west from McKean Avenue or uphill.Â
(GH)(SM) Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church and Parish House (St. Mary’s) – This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because they were here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). Nicknamed St. Mary's, the Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary was founded in 1902 as a Polish ethnic parish and can be traced to the immigration of Poles to the area. Polish priests visited Donora to celebrate Mass until a church was built; first in private homes and later at St. Dominic Church. Also in 1902, land was purchased for a church and in 1903, a resident pastor was assigned to the parish and work began on the church building built by the Donora Lumber Company and the Union Lumber Company for $21,000. The cornerstone was laid in 1904 and the finished building was dedicated in December of 1905. During World War II, seven sons of the parish made the ultimate sacrifice of their lives in the service of our country: Karl Danek, Joseph Debowski, Walter Glod, Emil Miller, Edwin Kupiszewski, Henry Pelczar and Walter Lutzkievich be remembered. This is where Stan Musial went to church with his family. This church served the Polish community for the next eight decades and over the years, several interior renovations were made to the church and schoolhouse. The site of the original Allen School behind the church was purchased for parking. In 1992, the Donora Catholic parishes merged to form Our Lady of the Valley parish and the Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary church building was closed. (GPS: 320 Second Street - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church Parish House (St. Mary’s) – This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because they were here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1906, the Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary built a large rectory or parish house. (GPS: 320 Second Street on the RIGHT)
(GH)(SM) Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary Polish School - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1907, a modest Polish parish school was built. It doesn't appear on a Sanborn map until 1921. Behind St. Mary's Church is a garage with a carport that was once a school. During the summer months Stan Musial would have attended Polish School in this building that was a one room schoolhouse to learn about his Catholic faith, and Polish heritage, traditions and language by an order of nuns from Poland, the Holy Ghost Sisters whose convent was across the street. Musial was a devote Catholic and proud of his Polish heritage. This building was later remodeled into a church activity center with a carport. (GPS: 320 Second Street or Carroll Avenue and St. Mary's Drive - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary Convent - This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). The Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary Polish parish school was staffed by an order of nuns from Poland called the Holy Ghost Sisters in 1914. This was their convent or home. This building is now apartments. (GPS: 130 Kenric Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Allen School Site - This building was built between 1900 and 1902 because it was here in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902). The foundation was started in 1900 and the rest of the building was built in 1901, the Allen School was Donora's first elementary school building built by the Union Improvement Company during the construction of the Steel Mill. The school had eight classrooms. The school was closed in 1968 and demolished in 1975. The property was purchased and used as a parking lot by the Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary Polish Church next door after the school was razed. (GPS: Second Street and Kenric Avenue - on the LEFT)
(OB)(GH) Demor's Store / Ross' Drug Store - This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of Donora's oldest buildings (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909 and 1914 and 1921, this was a grocery store on the righthand side of the building (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914 and 1921). This building started as Demor's Store. In 1938, this was Connelly's Emergency Store - Cold Meats & Groceries. In 1951 and 1974, this was Ross' Quality Pharmacy and Dairy Bar. (GPS: 135 Kenric Avenue - on the LEFT)
(OB)(GH) Wolf's Market / Laundromat - This building was built in 1901 or 1902 and is one of Donora's oldest buildings (Sanborn - 1902). In 1902, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1902). In 1909, this was vacant (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914 and 1921, this was a grocery store (Sanborn 1914 and 1921). In 1929, 1935, 1941, 1946 and 1951, this was Wolf's Market owned by Max Wolf. In 1938, Wolf's Market was a United Service Food Store. Later, in the 1960s and 1970s, this was a laundromat. In 1974, this was Econ-O-Wash Self Service laundromat. (GPS: 500 Second Street and Allen Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) George Vayansky's Groceries - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1951, this was George Vayansky's Groceries. In 1974, this was Vayansky Produce Market. Later it was owned by Don (Sonny) Vayansky. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, this was Marty's Pizza Shop and currently still is. (GPS: 642 Second Street or 214 Waddell Avenue - on the RIGHT)
NOTE: Second Street at Waddell Avenue is the end of Second Street and becomes Second Street Extension. The Second Street Extension area was annexed and became part of Donora in 1957.
(GH) “Deacon” Dan Towler Way – Just after Waddell Avenue at the beginning of Second Street Ext. you'll see Washington Drive on the right directly across the street from Burkhardt’s on the left. Washington Drive leads up to the old Donora High School and is also named Dan Towler Way after “Deacon” Dan Towler - a four sports star at Donora from 1943 to 1946, a two sports star at Washington and Jefferson College, and an NFL football player with the Los Angeles Rams. Ultimately Towler became a Methodist minister. (GPS: Washington Drive / Deacon Dan Towler Way - on the RIGHT)
(GH) St. Andrew the Apostle Church - Donora - The original St. Phillip Neri Italian Catholic Church was located at Eighth Street and Norman Avenue with the cornerstone laid in 1923, and the church dedicated in 1924. The rectory was built at 714 Norman Avenue in 1936. St. Philip Neri did not have a school at this location. In 1957, the parish acquired property off Second Street Extension as a site for a new parish which would include a church, school and rectory Ground was broken in 1959 and the school opened for classes in 1960. The school gymnasium never came to be and instead was used at the new St. Phillip Neri Church. With the first church consolidation in 2011, the name was changed to Our Lady of the Valley Church. The second consolidation renamed the church again to St. Andrew the Apostle Church. The ballfield and picnic area behind the church was actually Donora's first picnic site prior to the building of Palmer Park in 1920. It was part of John Opatkiewicz's - Putt's Farm and called Putt's Grove. The name Opatkiewicz became known as "Putkovich" and then "Putts." Other parts of the area at one time included an old strip mine, rock quarry, and a dam and springhouse from the farm. (GPS: 1 Park Manor Road - on the LEFT)
(SM) Mary Musial’s home – Continue up the hill on Second Street Extension, a section of Donora that was annexed in 1957. After St. Andrews the Apostle Catholic Church on the left you’ll see ranch-style houses. At 21 Second Street Extension is the house that Stan Musial built for his mother Mary. It has white siding on the top and stone on the bottom and was built in 1964. Musial would always visit his mother when his St. Louis Cardinals would play in Pittsburgh. This house is no longer owned by the Musial family. (GPS: 21 Second Street Extension - on the LEFT)
(GH) Sampson Star Public School / Massafra Funeral Home - This onetime elementary school lies on the Donora/Carroll Twp. border. Students attended from both communities. This school may have been built in the 1930s. Sampson Star was named after the two two-room schoolhouses: Sampson School at 61 Second Street Ext. and Star School at 626 Tenth Street. Just across 2nd Street Extension and down over the hill is a springhouse made out of the same red brick. Teachers would have students get fresh and cool spring water for all to drink. Currently and since the 1980s, this is the Anthony L. Massafra Funeral Home. (GPS: 40 Second Street Ext - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Mon Valley Memorial Park - Mon Valley Memorial Park has been providing cemetery services since the 1956. On this site was once was Kate Jenkins Farm, the daughter of James Sampson. Donora High School Class of 1945 graduate, Arnold "Pope" Galiffa's final resting space has been here since 1978. (GPS: 49 Second Street Ext. - on the LEFT)
(GH) Sampson School - It's uncertain when this building was built. Sanborn did not document this part of town since it wasn't Donora (Sanborn - 1902, 1909, 1914, 1921 and 1929). Since this building is identical to the Star School at 626 Tenth Street, it's assumed that this building was built before 1929 because Star School was here in 1929 and identified as Star School (Sanborn - 1929). This building was a two-room schoolhouse. It has a poured concrete foundation. Children from Carroll Township either went to school here or nearby Star School at 626 Tenth Street. The Sampson School and Star School have identical builds. We assume that children from this part of town went to the newly built Sampson Star School at some point in the 1930s when the Star School and Sampson School closed. After the school closed, someone bought the Sampson School and converted it into their home and dug out the basement. It continues to be a private residence to this day. Note the unusually tall first floor walls which we assume meant that the school rooms had 10–12-foot ceilings. (GPS: 61 Second Street Ext. - on the LEFT)
NOTE: Let's turnaround and backtrack on Second Street Extension to Cemetery Road on the left just past Sampson Star Public School / Massafra Funeral Home.
(GH) St. Michaels Cemetery - St. Michael’s Greek Catholic Church, that was founded in 1904, purchased twenty-five acres in 1932 on the western side of Donora just across Cemetery Road from the St. Dominic Cemetery in Carroll Township for their parish cemetery. (GPS: Cemetery Road - on the LEFTÂ
(GH)(48) St. Dominic Cemetery - In 1903, St. Dominic’s Catholic Church started their parish cemetery here across Cemetery Road from St. Michael's Cemetery. Sme of the victims of the 1948 Smog are buried in this cemetery. An unmarked mass grave also exists from 1913 of those Catholic miners that were buried here from the Cincinnati Mine in nearby Courtney / Finleyville after one of the worst mine explosions in U.S. history. This disaster resulted in the deaths of 96 miners and 1 rescue team member. The mine was opened in 1835 and was one of the oldest mines in the area. It is uncertain how many of those 97 victims are buried in the mass grave. (GPS: Cemetery Road at Saint Nicholas Drive - on the RIGHT)
(SM) Lucasz and Mary Musial gravesite - Within St. Dominic's Cemetery are the grave sites of Stan Musial’s parents. If you navigate all the way to the bottom just above the grotto, there is an uphill road that dead ends. Musial’s parents are up on the hill beyond the end of that road, but below the stone wall and slightly to the right. Their graves each have their own separate stones and could be hard to find, but you are welcome to try. Lillian Labash Musial's family is also buried in this cemetery. (GPS: Cemetery Road at Saint Nicholas Drive)
(GH)(KG) Ken Griffey Sr./Joe Perrotta Fields - The Legion Field Annex - If you were to have made a right onto Deacon Dan Towler Way and then make the first quick left onto Weaver Street, it would take you out to the Ken Griffey Sr. / Joe Perrotta Fields on Orchard Avenue. Once known as The Annex, the original field was reconfigured since Griffey played there in high school. It had a single field back then and the foundations of the original dugouts can be seen before the tree line beyond the right field fence and concession stand. Donora Youth Baseball still uses these fields, and the annual Joe Perrotta Golf Outing raises money to support the program and maintain the fields. Ken Sr. is usually a golf outing attendee. The Annex baseball field was close enough to the Donora High School football field that guys who played baseball and ran track could have done both at virtually the same time which Galiffa, Towler and Griffey did. You should now backtrack to Dan Towler Way and then to Second Street Extension to resume your tour. (GPS: 700 Orchard Avenue)
(GS) Ken Griffey Sr./Joe Perrotta Fields sign - At the Ken Griffey Sr. / Joe Perrotta Fields on Orchard Avenue is a sign that identifies it as such. This is not a ghost sign. (GPS: 700 Orchard Avenue)
SECOND STREET - Finish
THIRD STREET - Start
You will be heading west from McKean Avenue or uphill.Â
You will be heading west from McKean Avenue or uphill.Â
(GH) J & R Dairy Bar - This building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909. It's unsure if the building was here in 1902 because Sanborn didn't go this far west on Third Street (Sanborn - 1909). In 1946, this was J & R Dairy Bar for hot dogs, hamburgers and steak sandwiches - booth and counter service. (GPS: 319 Third Street - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Cascade Park - Cascade Park on Third Street is probably the first park in Donora since it appears as early as 1902 (Sanborn - 1902). While maintained, the park has no amenities except for a covered sitting bench. At one time it had a basketball court. (GPS: opposite of 333 Third Street - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Arnold "Pope" Galiffa Home - This house was built between 1901 and 1909 because it was here in 1909. Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). Arnold A. Galiffa - class of 1945, was born in Donora in 1927 and nicknamed "Pope". Galiffa was a four-sport star who was an All-State selection in football and basketball in 1944-45 on teams that dominated their competition becoming the first school to win WPIAL football and basketball titles in the same year. After high school, Pope chose the United States Military Academy at West Point where he played football, baseball and basketball. But football ended up being his best sport. In 1949, while leading Army to a 9-0 record, Pope was the team MVP, a first-team All-American quarterback and finished fourth in the Heisman Trophy voting. Pope appeared on the cover of Life Magazine on May 2, 1949. He graduated in 1950 with various school records in football and was recognized as the best athlete of his class winning the Army Athletic Association Award. He led the Black Knights to a 31-2 record, with 3 undefeated seasons, during his four years. Pope was drafted by the New York Giants in 1950 but had to honor his commitment to the Army serving in the Korean War. During the war, Galiffa was awarded a Bronze Star for valor in combat. Galiffa resigned from the Army in 1953 to enter civilian life and play for the New York Giants in 1953. Pope then played for the San Francisco 49ers in 1954, in the CFL for the British Columbia Lions in 1955, and finally for the Toronto Argonauts in 1956. Also in 1955, Pope returned to Donora to work in the local United States Steel (USS) mill as an industrial engineer. In 1964, Galiffa moved to Chicago to work in the law department for USS. The street that now runs in the industrial park where the United States Steel mill once stood is named in his honor - Galiffa Drive. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1983, the Pennsylvania Hall of Fame in 2004, and the WPIAL Hall of Fame in 2014. To read more bio details about Galiffa, click Home of Champions. (GPS: 523 Third Street - on the LEFT)
THIRD STREET - Finish
SIXTH / EIGHTH STREET - Start
SIXTH STREET - You will be heading west or uphill.
SIXTH STREET - You will be heading west or uphill.
(SM) Stan Musial Birth home – This house was built between 1901 and 1909 because it was here in 1909. Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). The Stan Musial birth home is a white-sided house with blue trim. It sits to the left of a house at 471 Sixth Street that has a carport to its left. Coincidently, the house at 471 Sixth Street was another unrelated Musial home. Brothers Frank and Joe Musial were young Stan’s mentors with the Polish Falcons in the 1920s and 30s. Frank and Joe’s sister Julia was Stan’s godmother. Stan confirmed this as being his birth house and that his family lived there. This is also documented in the 1920 census. (GPS: 465 Sixth Street - on the LEFT)
(SM) Stan Musial childhood home – This house was not found on the Sanborn maps, so it's unsure when it was built. After being born at 465 Sixth Street, the Musial family moved across the street for a few years before relocating to Marelda Avenue. (GPS: 472 Sixth Street - on the RIGHT)
(GH) First Baptist Church - At the corner of Sixth Street and Allen Avenue is First Baptist Church. The congregation of First Baptist Church was organized in 1902 and first dedicated their church building at 713 Allen Avenue in 1905. Property was purchased at Sixth Street and Allen Avenue and under the administration of the Rev. John E. Washington a new church building was erected in the 1960s. (GPS: 541 Allen Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Ceglarski's Grocery and Meat Market - This building was built between 1901 and 1914 because it was here in 1914. Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902 and 1909 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). In 1914 and 1921, this was a grocery store and meat market (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1926 and 1946, this was Joseph Ceglarski's Grocery and Meat Market owned by Jozef Ceglarski. In 1974, this was Marasovich Grocery. (GPS: 601 Allen Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) First Baptist Church - If you make a right at Ceglarski's onto Allen Avenue and go a half black, you will see the original First Baptist Church. This building was built between 1901 and 1914 because it was here in 1914. Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902 and 1909 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). In 1914 and 1921 and 1929, this was the First Baptist Church (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921 and 1929). The congregation of First Baptist Church was organized in 1902 and first dedicated their church building at 713 Allen Avenue in 1905. Property was purchased at Sixth Street and Allen Avenue and under the administration of the Rev. John E. Washington a new church building was erected in the 1960s. (GPS: 713 Allen Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Cy Gavin family home – If you continue on Allen Avenue to Eighth Street you'll see the Cy Gavin family home. This house was built between 1901 and 1914 because it was here in 1914. Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902 and 1909 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914). The house on the left at the end of the block at 505 Eighth Street is the home where contemporary artist Cy Gavin and his family lived while he was growing up in Donora. Gavin is best known for his stunning and beautiful paintings that are all motivated from personal experiences and his relationship to his family, his past, and the medium itself. He draws inspiration from Bermuda, the homeland of his father, and a place the artist has often visited to conduct research on his family’s history. Gavin now lives in New York, and he exhibits all over the world. (GPS: 505 Eighth Street - on the LEFT)
(GH) Samuel Mermelstein's Grocery - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1929, this was a store (Sanborn - 1929). In 1951, this was Samuel Mermelstein's Grocery. (GPS: 494 Eighth Street or Eight Street and Allen Avenue - on the RIGHT)
SIXTH / EIGHTH STREET - Finish
TENTH STREET - Start
TENTH STREET - You will be heading west or uphill.
TENTH STREET - You will be heading west or uphill.
(GH) Star School - It's uncertain when this building was built. Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902, 1909, 1914 and 1921 (Sanborn - 1902, 1909, 1914 and 1921). This building was built before 1929 because it was here in 1929 and identified as Star School (Sanborn - 1929). This building was a two-room schoolhouse. It has a poured concrete foundation with remnants of a well on the righthand side of the building. Children from Carroll Township, which is what this area was prior to 1930, either went to school here or nearby Sampson School at 61 Second Street Extension. The Star School and Sampson School have identical builds. The Sixth Street School was built in 1920 and was just a few blocks away. We assume that children from this part of town went to the newly built Sampson Star School or Sixth Street School at some point in the 1930s when the Star School and Sampson School closed. The Donora Historical Society has a piece of a chalkboard from the Start School from 1936 or 1937. After the school closed, someone bought the Star School and converted it into their home and dug out the basement. It continues to be a private residence to this day. Note the unusually tall first floor walls which we assume meant that the school rooms had 10–12-foot ceilings. (GPS: 626 Tenth Street - on the RIGHT)
TENTH STREET - Finish
CASTNER AVENUE - Start
You'll be heading south on Castner Avenue from St. Nicholas Drive to First Street.
You'll be heading south on Castner Avenue from St. Nicholas Drive to First Street.
(GH) Dragons Nest Bar - This building was built after 1929 because it was not here in 1929 (Sanborn - 1929). This was Joe Laputa's Dragon's Nest Bar. This bar closed in the 1960s when the steel mill closed and was perfectly preserved. Currently, it is a private residence. (GPS: 803 Castner Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Ficek's Meat and Groceries -Â It's uncertain when this building was built since it can not be found on any of the Sanborn maps. (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921 and 1929). In 1940 and 1941 and 1974, this was Ficek's store. Owned by Adam and Helen Ficek, the store specialized in making sausage, especially Polish Kielbasa. Adam Ficek was a Polish immigrant and also a Foreman at the Donora Zinc Works. (GPS: 20 Allen Plan or 800 Castner Avenue and St. Nicholas Drive)
(GH) Laputa Meat and Groceries - This building was built between 1901 and 1929 because it was here in 1929. Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921 and 1929). In 1951 and 1974, this was Laputa Meat and Groceries. (GPS: 21 Allen Plan or 820 Castner Avenue and St. Nicholas Drive)
(OB)(GH) Water Tanks - Built between 1901 and 1902, these two tanks are some of the original structures in Donora (Sanborn - 1902). These tanks may have been replaced over the years, but some parts of the structures are original. (GPS: 714 Castner Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Sixth Street School Site - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). The Sixth Street Elementary School was built here in 1920. The school was closed in 1979 and razed in the 1980s. (GPS: Sixth Street and Castner Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Berardino's Market - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1929, this was a store (Sanborn - 1929). In 1929, this was Weis & Lichtenstein Meats and Groceries. In 1946, this was Evan's Food Market. In 1951, this was Bernardino's Market. In 1952, this was Quality Market - Meats and Groceries, Frozen Foods, Fresh Fruits and Vegetables. In 1958, this was Hatrick's Meat Market. Currently, it is an apartment building. (GPS: 501 Castner Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Original American Croatian Citizens Club – If you were to make a quick right on Castner at Fifth Street, you would see this building. This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921 and 1929, this was a club house (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). The alley behind the Croatian Club built in 1951 is Hickory Drive. Just a block away from the Croatian Club at 329 Castner Avenue or Castner Avenue and Fourth Street, by way of Hickory Drive, is the original Croatian Club at Fifth Street and Hickory Drive or 618 Fifth Street. This served the Croatian community up until 1951 when the new Croatian Club was built. The building is now a private home. (GPS: 618 Fifth Street - on the RIGHT)
(GH) American Croatian Citizens Club – This building was built in 1951. Between Fourth and Third Streets, the orange American midcentury modern brick building on the right at 329 Castner Avenue was built in 1951 as the American Croatian Citizens Club. Locals call it the Cro Club. The building’s interior still features a duckpin bowling alley downstairs off the Castner Avenue entrance and a horseshoe bar and a social room with a stage upstairs that is all original to 1951. The club and bowling alleys are still very active. The Castner Avenue entrance is usually open if you would like to take a look. The bowling alley isn’t open at all times, and this is a private club, so someone will have to buzz you in upstairs if you knock on the bar entrance door. Depending on your interest and their bartender availability, perhaps someone can open the bowling alley for you as well. A unique feature is that the bowling pins are manually set by willing kids. The Cro Club runs its own bowling league, but the alleys are open on occasion for Open Bowling Night for those seeking nostalgia and a fun time. This duckpin alley is one of just a couple left in the Pittsburgh area. (GPS: 329 Caster Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Julie's Beauty Shoppe - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1942, this was Julie's Beauty Shoppe. (GPS: 243 Castner Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Macik's Grocery - This building was built between 1901 and 1909 because it was here in 1909. Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909, and 1914 and 1921 and 1929, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914 and 1921 and 1929). In 1926 and 1954, this was Macik's Grocery. (GPS: 225 Castner Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Emanual Baptist Church - Emanual Baptist Church was founded in Donora in 1903 and held their first services in Odd Fellows Hall in the First National Bank building (Smog Museum) before they moved to the Odd Fellows Hall across McKean Avenue in the Strickler building. When the weather was warm, they held services in a tent on McKean Avenue between Fifth and Sixth Streets. This continued until they built their wooden church at 317 First Street and Watkins Avenue. Their second church was built here with ground broken in 1948 and the church dedicated in 1949. Currently, this is still the Emanual Baptist Church. (GPS: 137 Castner Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Chub's Pub Building - The left-hand side of the building (103 Caster Avenue) was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1914, this was a men's clothing store (Sanborn - 1914). The rest of the building (105 and 107 Castner Avenue) was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, 103 Castner Avenue was a Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company or A&P, 105 Castner Avenue was a notions store, and 107 Castner Avenue was a meat market (Sanborn - 1921).
In 1926, 105 Castner Avenue was a location of a Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company or A&P. Later, it was Fenicy's Store, In the 1951 it was Bergstein's Market. In 1974, this was Danny's Market.
In 1926, 107 Castner Avenue was S&M Orzechowski Dry Goods Store and Meat Market. Later, it was the Quality Meat Market. In 1938, 107 Castner Avenue was Orzechoski Cafe. In 1946 and 1951, this was the Ore Cafe. Later it was Orjekowski's Bar. In 1954, 107 Castner Avenue was Michael Orient's Beer Parlor. In 1974, 107 Castner Avenue was Orient's Bar or Mike Orient's Bar. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, 105 and 107 Castner Avenue was Chub's Pub and currently still is. (GPS: 103 and 105 and 107 Castner Avenue - on the RIGHT)
In 1926, 105 Castner Avenue was a location of a Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company or A&P. Later, it was Fenicy's Store, In the 1951 it was Bergstein's Market. In 1974, this was Danny's Market.
In 1926, 107 Castner Avenue was S&M Orzechowski Dry Goods Store and Meat Market. Later, it was the Quality Meat Market. In 1938, 107 Castner Avenue was Orzechoski Cafe. In 1946 and 1951, this was the Ore Cafe. Later it was Orjekowski's Bar. In 1954, 107 Castner Avenue was Michael Orient's Beer Parlor. In 1974, 107 Castner Avenue was Orient's Bar or Mike Orient's Bar. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000, 105 and 107 Castner Avenue was Chub's Pub and currently still is. (GPS: 103 and 105 and 107 Castner Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) First Street School Site – This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). At the corner of Castner Avenue and First Street is the site of the First Street School or Donora Junior High. It was actually Donora’s second High School building built in 1913, replacing the Caster School as the high school. It became the Donora Junior High in 1930 when the third high school building was opened on Waddell Avenue. The Junior High building closed in 1974. It was razed in the 2000s. (GPS: First Street and Allen Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Kim Moses Home - This house was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1921, this was a location of a shoe shop shed (Sanborn - 1921). At the intersection of First Street and Allen Avenue is the red sided home of Kim Moses. Moses is a producer, director and writer for Sander/Moses Productions and SLAM Digital Media in Hollywood, California who’s involved in prime-time television programming, and whose hits included shows such as the CBS drama Ghost Whisperer. (GPS: 439 First Street - on the RIGHT)
(GH) The Redwood – This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1914, this was vacant probably because it was just built (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1921). In 1916, this was the Rongaus grocery store of Simplicio and Maria Roncace (Rongaus). In 1932 and 1938, it was a neighborhood tavern called Rongaus Hilltop Restaurant. In 1946, 1951 and 1974, it was called the Redwood Bar. After Leon "Lee" Rongaus returned from WWII, he took over the restaurant making it into the legendary Redwood. The entrance to the red brick building with blue-sided front greeted guest with the words - "A Book of Verse, A Loaf of Bread, A Jug of Wine and Thou" (that are still on the building) and white linen tablecloths, a single rose and Lee's very own hand-etched wine glasses in Italian love verses welcomed them to their tables. Celebrities such as Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, Paul Newman, Joanne Woodward, Stan Musial and many of the Pittsburgh Steelers from the 1970s Super Bowl teams were among the many who dined here. In 2001, the Redwood was owner by Les Stark. It’s no longer a restaurant, but still owned by the Rongaus family. (GPS: 87 Caster Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GS) The Redwood ghost sign - In 1951, this was called the Redwood Bar. The entrance to the red brick building with blue-sided front greeted guest with the words - "A Book of Verse, A Loaf of Bread, A Jug of Wine and Thou", that are still on the building as a ghost sign of sorts. (GPS: 87 Caster Avenue - on the RIGHT)
CASTNER AVENUE - Finish
WADDELL AVENUE - Start
You'll be heading south on Waddell Avenue from St. Fifth Street to Second Street.
You'll be heading south on Waddell Avenue from St. Fifth Street to Second Street.
(SM)(KG)(GH) Donora High School – This building was built in 1930 and first appears in 1929 as being proposed (Sanborn - 1929). At the intersection of Fourth Street and Waddell Avenue on the right is the old Donora High School that was built in 1930. This is where Stan Musial went to high school and played basketball and baseball, and Ken Griffey Sr. played football, basketball, baseball and track. It was most recently an elementary school starting in 1979 and is now closed. (GPS: 401 Waddell Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(SM)(KG)(GH) Donora High School Legion Field – To the right of Donora High School and in the back is a football field surrounded by a track. Games were first played here in 1930. In 1938 when Donora baseball was resurrected because of Stan Musial, the football field was also used as the baseball field with home plate on the right in the closest end zone. Musial played baseball here. Donora Little League played here starting in 1952. Some of the Donora football players that played here were Arnold “Pope” Galiffa and “Deacon” Dan Towler of the powerhouse teams of 1944 and 45, and Ken Griffey Sr. of the powerhouse teams of 1967 and 68. Another guy that played here after Donora merged with nearby Monongahela in 1970 to form Ringgold High School, was Joe Montana from Monongahela who played for Ringgold in 1972 and 73, and then at Notre Dame and for the San Francisco Forty Niners and Kansas City Chiefs. Yet another, was Aliquippa’s Mike Ditka who also played at Pitt, the Dallas Cowboys and coached the Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints. Lights were added to the stadium in 1950. Donora's Midget League football started here in 1955. Mon Valley Catholic High School also used this field as their home field. The first Donora football field was located where Dyno Nobel/ Donora Zinc Works is now along the river. The second field was called Steel Works Park and was located where the Sewage Plant is now. The third field was Americo Park and was located across Route 837 at the entrance to Palmer Park. And the fourth field was in Palmer Park. (GPS: 401 Waddell Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GS) Donora High School Legion Field Scoreboard ghost sign - In the far endzone of the Legion Field football field is a Daktronics scoreboard. The scoreboard was used for Donora, Mon Valley Catholic and Ringgold High Schools. In faded letters, in the upper righthand corner has the word GUEST. Also in faded letters, in the upper lefthand corner has the word DONORA. The scoreboard is a faded blue color, likely repainted when Ringgold High School started to play here in 1970. (GPS: 401 Waddell Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) “Deacon” Dan Towler Home – It is unsure when this house was built because Sanborn did not document this part of Donora. Dan Lee Towler, class of 1946, was born in Donora in 1928. Towler was a four-sport athlete that helped propel the Donora powerhouse teams of the 1940s to legendary status. Towler was an all-state fullback who led Donora to Western Pennsylvania titles in 1944 and 1945. After high school, Towler enrolled at Washington and Jefferson College where he would continue to excel in football and track. Towler also excelled in the classroom and graduated cum laude. After college, Towler was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1950. Towler moved to Los Angeles, and while starting his football career, he continued his education at the University of Southern California (USC) and pursued a master's degree in theology. Nicknamed "Deacon Dan" because he would lead the Rams in their pregame prayer. The Rams won the 1951 World Championship. After six seasons, 3,493 yards for a 5.2 average and scoring 43 touchdowns, Towler abruptly ended his football career in 1955 to become a Methodist minister. Towler would continue his education, earning a PhD in education, and involvement in the Los Angeles community. Deacon Dan would go on to serve 26 years and was a six-term president of the Los Angeles County Board of Education. He also headed the Dan Towler Foundation, which helped needy students. At the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Deacon Dan is recognized on the Scroll of Achievement with two other players who made contributions beyond the playing field. The street that runs in back of this home was named for Deacon Dan Towler. See below. To read more bio details about Towler, click Home of Champions. In 1938, 240 Waddell Avenue was Hilltop Grocery run by W.L. Towler. (GPS: 249 Waddell Avenue - on the RIGHT)
WADDELL AVENUE - Finish
FIFTH STREET - Start
You will be heading west or uphill.
You will be heading west or uphill.
(GH) St. Michael’s Greek Catholic Church - The first wooden St. Michael's Greek Catholic Church building was built between 1902 and 1909 because it was here in 1909 but not in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). This current brick church building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). In 1901, the Byzantine Catholic faithful and their branch of the Greek Catholic Union Lodge No. 252 was organized under the name of St. Michael and immediately began to think of building a church. The first organizational meeting was held on April 11, 1904, in the Vargo Hall in Donora. A church charter was granted in the name of “St. Michael’s Slavish Greek Catholic Church.” Construction of the first wooden church was completed in 1904 that proved to be too small, so the construction of a new brick church was begun in 1911 on the site of the wooden church by Donora architect CC Compton. On September 4, 1911, the cornerstone was blessed, and the first Divine Liturgy was celebrated on the fifth Sunday of Lent in 1912. Donora native Archbishop Nicholas T. Elko was a member of St. Michael's. The church was renovated in 1963. (GPS: 519 Murray Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) St. Michael’s Greek Catholic Church Rectory - The rectory house of St. Michael's Greek Catholic church was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). (GPS: 511 Murray Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) Fifth Street School Site - Built in 1909. This building was built between 1901 and 1909 because it was here in 1909. Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). The Fifth Street Elementary School was used as a public school into the 1940s.
In 1908, St. Charles School opened a school in the basement of their church, with an opening enrollment of 160 pupils. The Sisters of St. Joseph staffed the school. In 1950, the unused Fifth Street School Building was rented for use as its school. It was in use by St. Charles until 1969.The consolidation of the three Donora parochial schools – St. Charles, St. Dominic and St. Philip – was announced in 1969, and Donora Catholic School began its first year. Primary grades (1-3) were located in the St. Philip building, intermediate (4-6) at St. Dominic and middle school (7-8) at St. Charles. In 1972, the use of the St. Charles building was discontinued, and the first four grades were housed at St. Dominic and the last four at St. Philip. The school was closed in 1979. The building was razed in the 2010s. (GPS:480 Fifth Street - on the RIGHT)
In 1908, St. Charles School opened a school in the basement of their church, with an opening enrollment of 160 pupils. The Sisters of St. Joseph staffed the school. In 1950, the unused Fifth Street School Building was rented for use as its school. It was in use by St. Charles until 1969.The consolidation of the three Donora parochial schools – St. Charles, St. Dominic and St. Philip – was announced in 1969, and Donora Catholic School began its first year. Primary grades (1-3) were located in the St. Philip building, intermediate (4-6) at St. Dominic and middle school (7-8) at St. Charles. In 1972, the use of the St. Charles building was discontinued, and the first four grades were housed at St. Dominic and the last four at St. Philip. The school was closed in 1979. The building was razed in the 2010s. (GPS:480 Fifth Street - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Ondra's Dairy Bar - This building was built between 1901 and 1909 because it was here in 1909. Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1909). In 1914, this was a drug store (Sanborn - 1914). In 1921 and 1929, this was a store (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). In 1926, this was a location of a Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company or A&P. In 1938, this was Kaufman's Grill - Beer, Wines and Liquors. In 1946, this building was purchased from Joe Clement and became Ondra's Dairy Bar. In 1951 and 1974, this was Ondra's Dairy Bar. In 1994 and 1996 and 2000 and 2001, this was Chris' Corner Deli. It then became Anna Lee's convenience store. Currently, it is closed. (GPS: 501 Allen Avenue - on the RIGHT)Â
(GH) David Bier's Store - This building was built between 1901 and 1909 because it was here in 1909. Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). In 1909 and 1914 and 1921, this was a grocery store (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914 and 1921). In 1929, this was a store (Sanborn - 1929). In 1926, this was David Bier's Confectionary - Ice Cream and Soda Water. In 1929, 1951 and 1974, this was David Bier's Meats and Groceries. Notice over the set of windows facing Fifth Street is a concrete sign (GPS: 501 Fifth Street and Allen Avenue - on the LEFT)Â
(GS) David Bier ghost sign - This isn't really a ghost sign but identifies the building as owned at one time by David Bier. This feature is original to the building. (GPS: Fifth Street and Allen Avenue - on the LEFT)
(GH) David Biers Pool Room and Barber Shop - This building was built between 1914 and 1921 because it was here in 1921 but not in 1914 (Sanborn - 1914 and 1921). In 1921, this was a barber shop and a pool room on the left (Sanborn - 1921). Originally, this was David Bier's Pool Room and barber Shop. Later, this was Tony's Cat's Paw Shoe Repair Shop. In 1958, 1973 and 1974, down around and in "The Alley" was the Friendly Tavern at 426 Sycamore Drive. (GPS: 515 Fifth Street)Â
(GH) Galiffa's Pizza and Fundraising - This is a modern building that contains 50+ year Donora institution Galiffa's Pizza and Fundraising. Started by Art Galiffa, it is now run by son Barry Galiffa and his wife Judy. It sits between Fifth and Third Streets in "The Alley" or Sycamore Drive. (GPS: Sycamore Drive - 407 Allen Avenue Rear)Â
FIFTH STREET - Finish
SEVENTH STREET - Start
You will be heading west or uphill.
You will be heading west or uphill.
(OB)(GH) Ailes Home - This house was built between 1901 and 1909 because it was here in 1909. Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). This house was built in 1901 for George Ailes, a Donora banker. It is now a private residence. (GPS: 676 Heslep Avenue)
(GH) St. Phillip's Roman Catholic Italian Church - This building was built between 1921 and 1929 because it was here in 1929 but not in 1921 (Sanborn - 1921 and 1929). The Italian community in Donora built their first church at Eighth Street and Norman Avenue. The cornerstone was laid in 1923, and the church was dedicated in 1924. In 1936, the rectory was built at 714 Norman Avenue. In 1957, the parish acquired property off Second Street Extension as a site for a new parish which would include a church, school and rectory. Ground was broken in 1959, and the church and school were opened in 1960. This church site was closed shortly after and sold. The new church from 1959 is now known as St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church. (GPS: to the left of 714 Norman Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Pump House - This building was built between 1909 and 1914 because it was here in 1914 but not in 1909 (Sanborn - 1909 and 1914). On the Sanborn maps, they say this is a High Service Pump House. (GPS: 729 Norman Avenue)
(GH) St. Charles Borromeo Irish Catholic Church - This building was built between 1901 and 1909 because it was here in 1909. Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909). The original St. Charles Church was founded in 1902 and built on Heslep Avenue in the spring of 1903. In 1908, St. Charles opened a Parochial School in the basement of their church, with an opening enrollment of 160 pupils and staffed by the Sisters of St. Joseph. The St. Charles Church closed in 1992. (GPS: 802 Heslep Avenue or 735 Thompson Avenue)
(GH) St. Nicholas Orthodox Church - Shortly after Donora had constructed its steel mills, many immigrants immigrated to this new town seeking employment and hope for a better life. Among this group were men and women who were born in Russia as well as others who came from the Carpathian Mountains in the Austro-Hungarian Empire. At that time, there was no Orthodox church in Donora. In 1916, St. Nicholas Orthodox Church organized and held its first service in the Zeffiro building on Eighth Street and McKean Avenue. In 1917, the parishioners purchased property on Heslep Avenue to build their own church. In 1918, the first church building was completed. In 1951, the original church building was replaced by the present building that features a bell tower flanked by two rows of arches and a large onion-shaped dome with a three-bar Russian Orthodox cross. The cornerstone was blessed in 1952. The church remains as one of the few existing styles of Old Russian Orthodox architecture. The colonial-style rectory was built alongside the church in 1963. (GPS: 1 Saint Nicholas Drive or 809 Heslep Avenue - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Seventh Street Steps - Upper Set - After the intersection of Seventh Street and Norman Street is the start of 80 steps that reconnects Seventh Street again. By walking up the steps, you'll arrive back on Seventh Street on its way to Allen Avenue. These are the upper set of Seventh Street Steps. There is another lower set that starts on Thompson Avenue. (GPS: to the left of 701 Thompson Avenue and across Seventh Street - on the RIGHT)
SEVENTH STREET - Finish
TENTH STREET - Start
(SM) Stan Musial/Lancas Home - This house was built between 1901 and 1921 because it was here in 1921. Sanborn did not document this part of town in 1902 and 1909 and 1914 (Sanborn - 1902 and 1909 and 1914 and 1921). Stan Musial was born on Sixth Street but raised at 1137 Marelda Avenue from a small child to making it to play professional baseball. This was his grandmother Lancas' home. Stan's family moved here around 1927-1928. (GPS: 1137 Marelda Avenue - on the LEFT)
TENTH STREET - Finish
GALIFFA DRIVE - Start
You will be heading south on Galiffa Drive. Galiffa Drive is the main street through the INDUSTRIAL PARK - Footprint of the Donora Zinc Works and AS&W Steel Works. From Meldon Avenue, start at Scott Street that is a block north of Thirteenth Street.
You will be heading south on Galiffa Drive. Galiffa Drive is the main street through the INDUSTRIAL PARK - Footprint of the Donora Zinc Works and AS&W Steel Works. From Meldon Avenue, start at Scott Street that is a block north of Thirteenth Street.
(48)(SM)(GH) Donora Zinc Works - Scott Street leads down to the railroad tracks and puts you on Galiffa Drive where you can make a right. You’ll see the faded-red buildings of Dyno Nobel Inc. These were some of the original buildings from the Donora Zinc Works that were built in 1916. A cluster of nine buildings still exist that feature a pottery building (see below), pottery warehouse (see below), garage, pattern storage building, oil house, storage building, machine shop and store house, offices/hospital/locker rooms/credit union/recreation room, chemical laboratory, and power plant. Eight of the buildings was determined eligible for the National Register of Historic Places in 2010. The Zinc Works ceased in 1957. Shortly after, the other buildings were razed.Â
The toxic fumes emitted from the Zinc Works, along with the temperature inversion, were the main components in causing the deaths during the 1948 Smog. All along the river in the current industrial park whose footprint once contained not only the Zinc Works, but also the American Steel and Wire Steel Mill, would have stretched three miles south all the way back to the Stan "The Man" Musial Bridge. Musial played for the Donora Zincs steel mill league baseball team as a 15-year-old with grown men who were probably paid, which nullified his senior year of playing baseball for Donora High School. While in the Minor Leagues, Musial would return to Donora in the winter to work in the Zinc Works as a laborer. To the left would have been the site of Gilmore or Americo Field, Donora’s original baseball and football field. Donora High School played football here from 1904 to 1919 when they switched to Palmer Park. This was Hercules Inc. from 1969 to 1985. From 1985 to 1993 this was Ireco Inc. Since 1993, this has been Dyno Nobel. (GPS: 1820 Galiffa Drive - on the LEFT)
The toxic fumes emitted from the Zinc Works, along with the temperature inversion, were the main components in causing the deaths during the 1948 Smog. All along the river in the current industrial park whose footprint once contained not only the Zinc Works, but also the American Steel and Wire Steel Mill, would have stretched three miles south all the way back to the Stan "The Man" Musial Bridge. Musial played for the Donora Zincs steel mill league baseball team as a 15-year-old with grown men who were probably paid, which nullified his senior year of playing baseball for Donora High School. While in the Minor Leagues, Musial would return to Donora in the winter to work in the Zinc Works as a laborer. To the left would have been the site of Gilmore or Americo Field, Donora’s original baseball and football field. Donora High School played football here from 1904 to 1919 when they switched to Palmer Park. This was Hercules Inc. from 1969 to 1985. From 1985 to 1993 this was Ireco Inc. Since 1993, this has been Dyno Nobel. (GPS: 1820 Galiffa Drive - on the LEFT)
(GS) Donora Zinc Works Speed Limit ghost sign - An northern extension of Galiffa Drive is Nitrous Lane. The Donora Zinc Works would have extended in this direction. If you were to head north or left from Scott Street, you will eventually see Matheson - an industrial gas supplier. This speed limit sign is not a ghost sign but humorous, nonetheless. Now, turnaround and head south back to Dyno Nobel Inc. (GPS: 1 Nitrous Lane - on the RIGHT)
(48)(GH) Donora Zinc Works Main Office - This was the main office building of the Donora Zinc Works. It currently is not being used. The basement contains a recreation room, credit union teller window and safes, all original to the Zinc Works. (GPS: 1820 Galiffa Drive - on the LEFT)
(GS)(48)(GH) Donora Zinc Works Main Office ghost sign - This isn't really a ghost sign but one of the few cornerstones that reflects the year the Donora Zinc Works was built. (GPS: 1820 Galiffa Drive - on the LEFT)
(48)(GH) Donora Zinc Works Lab and Locker Room - We assume this building was also built in 1916. This was the building used as the laboratory. The basement contains locker and shower rooms. It currently is not being used. (GPS: 1820 Galiffa Drive - on the LEFT)
(48)(GH) Donora Zinc Works Warehouse - We assume this building was also built in 1916. This building is used as the main office of Dyno Nobel. The upper floor contained locker and shower room and still contains crated parts used at the Donora Zinc Works. It even contains a once used Stewart Hot Water Tank. (GPS: 1820 Galiffa Drive - on the LEFT)
(48)(GH) Donora Zinc Works Warehouse #2 - We assume this building was also built in 1916. This building is used as a warehouse by Dyno Nobel. (GPS: 1820 Galiffa Drive - on the LEFT)
(GS) Donora Zinc Works Speed Limit ghost sign - This speed limit sign is not a ghost sign but humorous, nonetheless. (GPS: 1820 Galiffa Drive - on the LEFT)
(48)(GH) Donora Zinc Works Warehouse #3 - We assume this building was also built in 1916. This building is used as a warehouse by Dyno Nobel. (GPS: 1820 Galiffa Drive - on the LEFT)
(GH) Donora Zinc Works - Pottery Building - We assume this building was also built in 1915 or 1916. This is an original building of the Donora Zinc Works and served as the pottery building in 1915. This building has been repurposed and is currently the home of Airgas USA. (GPS: Galiffa Drive or 1220 Scott Street - on the LEFT)
(GH) Donora Zinc Works - Pottery Warehouse - This is an original building of the Donora Zinc Works and served as the pottery warehouse from 1916-26. This building has been repurposed from the Zinc Works and is currently the home of A-1 Babbitt and Machine. (GPS: Galiffa Drive or 1122 Scott Street - on the LEFT)
(GS) Donora Zinc Works - Pottery Warehouse ghost sign - This building has been repurposed from the Zinc Works and is currently the home of A-1 Babbitt and Machine. A ghost sign appears above the lower roof line. It advertises THOROSEAL WATERPLUG. It's assumed that this product wase once made in this building. Â (GPS: Galiffa Drive or 1122 Scott Street - on the LEFT)
(GH) Donora Southern Railroad Tracks - North - These are the set of Donora Southern Railroad (DSRR) tracks that lie beside the Monongahela River and serviced the American Steel & Wire along with 27 other miles of track. This photo shows the rails heading north through the industrial park but are not active. These tracks were used to carry the slag pots to dump slag along the riverbank to build it up. If you carefully look over the edge on the right, you'll see the shear drop or slag cliff to the river about 30 feet below. These tracks are located behind the old Zinc Works - Pottery Warehouse, currently A-1 Babbitt and Machine mentioned above. (GPS: behind 1122 Scott Street)
(48)(GH) Village of Webster - The village directly across the Mon River from Donora is Webster. Named after American lawyer and statesman Daniel Webster, it was incorporated in 1833. Webster is often mentioned with Donora due to its shared history with the Donora-Webster Bridge built in 1908 and the 1948 Smog that took the lives of people on both sides of the Monongahela River in both Donora and Webster. Between A-1 Babbitt and Machine and the AS&W Warehouse mentioned below was the Donora-Webster Bridge from 1908 to 2015. (GPS: behind 1122 Scott Street)
(GH) AS&W Mathews Field Fence Warehouse - Northern Side - This is an original building of the American Steel & Wire Company (AS&W) that is well over 100 years old and has been repurposed from the Wire Mill. This was the northern side of the of the Mathews Field Fence warehouse with a rail entrance that can take railcars directly into the building four feet below the warehouse floor where they can be offloaded at floor level. From 1908 to 2015, the Donora-Webster Bridge passed right in front of this entrance to join Donora with the village of Webster. (GPS: Galiffa Drive or 950 Scott Street - to the RIGHT)
(GH) AS&W Mathews Field Fence Warehouse - Southern Side - This is an original building of the American Steel & Wire Company (AS&W) that is well over 100 years old and has been repurposed from the Wire Mill. This was the southern entrance of the Mathews Field Fence warehouse. Portions or the interior still have the original cranes and wooden block floors. While repurposed as a warehouse, it's believed that it was never cleaned, and a lot of the original mill dust still exists there. In 1974, this was Tygart Industries, Inc. that was a steel plate fabricator. (GPS: Galiffa Drive or 950 Scott Street - to the RIGHT)
(GH) Donora Southern Railroad Tracks - South - These are a set of Donora Southern Railroad (DSRR) tracks that lie beside the Monongahela River and serviced the American Steel & Wire along with 27 other miles of track. This photo shows the rails heading south through the industrial park but are not active. These tracks were used to carry the railroad slag pots to dump slag along the riverbank to build it up. If you carefully look over the edge on the left, you'll see the shear drop or slag cliff to the river about 30 feet below. These tracks are located behind the old AS&W Mathews Field Fence Warehouse mentioned above. (GPS: behind 950 Scott Street)
(GH) AS&W Warehouse - Western Side - This is the western side or river side of an original building of the American Steel & Wire Company (AS&W) that is well over 100 years old and has been repurposed from the Nail Mill. In 1974, this was Western Pa. Grocers, Inc. Currently, it is the home of Mid Mon Valley Transit Authority (MMVTA) Bus Garage. All MMVTA buses run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) out of this garage and travel as far north as downtown Pittsburgh. (GPS: 72 E 8th Street - on the RIGHT)
(GH) AS&W Warehouse - Southern Side - This is the southern or Eighth Street side of an original building of the American Steel & Wire Company (AS&W) that is well over 100 years old and has been repurposed from the Nail Mill. In 1974, this was Western Pa. Grocers, Inc. Currently, it is the home of Mid Mon Valley Transit Authority (MMVTA) Bus Garage. All MMVTA buses run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) out of this garage and travel as far north as downtown Pittsburgh. Back in the day, the Pennsylvania Railroad Station sat directly across the tracks and to the west of this building. (GPS: 72 E Eighth Street - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Galiffa Drive - At the intersection of Eighth Street and Galiffa Drive was the site of the Eighth Street Gate entrance to the American Steel & Wire Company (AS&W) steel mill. This road is named for Arnold “Pope” Galiffa, a four sports star at Donora high School, a three sports star at the United States Military Academy - West Point, a college football All-American, Korean War hero, NFL football player and engineer at U.S. Steel. (GPS: Galiffa Drive and Eighth Street - on the LEFT)
(GH) AS&W Office Building - This is an original building of the American Steel & Wire Company (AS&W) that is well over 100 years old and has been repurposed. Later, this building was used as a sewing factory. In 1974, this was Donora Sportswear Company for women's London Fog clothing. Currently it is the home of Hydra-Service, Inc. that services hydraulic customers around the world. (GPS: 585 Galiffa Drive - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Donora-Webster Bridge Pier Stones - At 565 Galiffa Drive is the Borough of Donora maintenance garage. To the left of this building are a couple of holding areas used to drop-off and recycle yard waste. Among these holding areas are a few very large rectangular tan stones that were once part of the Donora-Webster Bridge Piers (1908-2015). (GPS: to the left or south of 565 Galiffa Drive)
(GH) AS&W Blooming Mill Warehouse - Northern Side - This is an original building of the American Steel & Wire Company (AS&W) that is well over 100 years old and has been repurposed from the Blooming Mill. In 1974, this was Power Piping Company. Currently, it is the home of Bergen Piping. This is the northern side of the warehouse. (GPS: 484 Galiffa Drive - on the LEFT)
(GH) AS&W Blooming Mill Warehouse - Southern Side - This is an original building of the American Steel & Wire Company (AS&W) that is well over 100 years old and has been repurposed from the Blooming Mill. In 1974, this was Power Piping Company. Currently, it is the home of Bergen Piping. This is the southern side of the warehouse. (GPS: 484 Galiffa Drive - on the LEFT)
(GH) AS&W Building Foundation - Next to the Barchemy LLC offices is a foundation with a tree growing through the center. This is an original building foundation of the American Steel & Wire Company (AS&W) that is well over 100 years old. (GPS: 65 E. 1st Street)
(GH) Andrew Posey Memorial - In the Barchemy LLC factory parking lot/shipping dock area and underneath a couple of trees is the Andrew Posey Memorial rock. Born in 1898, Andrew Posey returned from World War I to resume his open-hearth job at the AS&W Steel Mill as a ladle "stopper-checker", which meant that he checked the ladles by going to the bottom of them when they were empty to make certain the stopper was closed and ready to receive the molten steel. On January 8, 1920, as he stopped to examine the bottom of an empty ladle, the furnace rear stopper broke open and poured molten steel down upon him, filling the ladle with molten steel and consuming Posey. AS&W let the molten steel, that included the Posey remains, cool into a solid steel ingot. The ingot was buried on the mill site near the site of the tragedy to mark forever the death of a worker for the steel company. At some point, possibly after World War II, Joseph Posey, Andrew's brother and a bricklayer for the Donora mill, built a grave site made with fire brick and pipe. For decades, that grave or memorial sat at the far end of the parking lot beyond the southern end of the warehouse. Due to an expansion of Barchemy's warehouse in 2022, the memorial was removed, and the steel ingot could not be found. The folklore story that was told was that the same steel ingot that entombed Posey was reused during World War II when the AS&W Steel Mill was part of the Arsenal of Democracy supplying needed items for the war effort. A rock was inscribed as a memorial a short distance from the original site and closer to the Barchemy entrance. This is that rock. (GPS: 468 Galiffa Drive - on the RIGHT)
(OB)(GH) AS&W Ore Yard Wall ruins - On Washington Street, if you venture through the wooded lot, you'll see the ruins of a couple sets of walls that were part of the American Steel & Wire Ore Yard. Along with coke and limestone, the other main ingredient for making steel was iron ore. Iron ore was brought in by river barge and railroad and offloaded here. The iron ore's next destination was the blast furnaces to start the steel making process. The ruins aren't easily seen from Washington Street but can easily be seen by walking a short distance into the woods. (GPS: to the left of 85 Washington Street or Therm-O-Rock - on the RIGHT)
(OB)(GH) AS&W Ore Yard Pier ruins - On Washington Street, if you venture through the wooded lot, you'll see the ruins of the piers that were part of the American Steel & Wire Ore Yard. Along with coke and limestone, the other main ingredient for making steel was iron ore. Iron ore was brought in by river barge and railroad and offloaded here. The iron ore's next destination was the blast furnaces to start the steel making process. The ruins aren't easily seen from Washington Street but can easily be seen by walking a short distance into the woods. (GPS: to the right of 65 Washington Street or Apex International - on the RIGHT)
(GH) Monongahela Riverfront Access - Since the entire Monongahela Riverbank is a sheer cliff from being built up with slag, there is no other entrance to the Monongahela River except here. This is an earthen ramp that will lead you to the river for fishing or an interesting view of the Stan "The Man" Musial Bridge. It was believed that this could have also been an original dump site of the village that existed before Donora - West Columbia. You can find bottle fragments and pottery shards along the riverbank. (GPS: 65 Washington Street across the street from Apex International)
(OB)(GH) AS&W Ore Yard Pump House - At the bottom of the Monongahela Riverfront Access, if you bare to the right and walk about 100 yards, you'll see what remains of the American Steel & Wire Ore Yard Pump House that is well over 100 years old. It's almost under the Stan "The Man" Musial Bridge. You can see the half-moon intake inlets used to pump river water into the steel mill. The best view of the dock is actually from across the river on Route 906, on the Stan "The Man" Musial Bridge deck or on the Monongahela River providing you are in a boat. (GPS: 65 Washington Street across the street from Apex International)
(OB)(GH) AS&W Steel Works Boat Dock - This is what remains of an original boat dock of American Steel & Wire Company (AS&W) that is well over 100 years old. It sits on the bank of the Monongahela River just across the old Donora Southern Railroad tracks behind the AS&W Warehouse building that was repurposed as Bergen Piping mentioned above. The best view of the dock is actually from across the river on Route 906 between Monessen and Webster or on the Monongahela River providing you are in a boat.
(GH) Donora Zinc Works Boat Dock - This is what remains of an original boat dock of American Steel & Wire Company (AS&W) that is well over 100 years old. It sits on the bank of the Monongahela River just across the old Donora Southern Railroad tracks behind the Donora Zinc Works office buildings that were repurposed as Dyna Nobel inc. mentioned above. The best view of the dock is actually from across the river on Route 906 north of Webster or on the Monongahela River providing you are in a boat.
(KG)(GH) Ken Griffey Sr./Jr. Drive – Continue on E 1st Street and at the stop sign make a right onto Ken Griffey Sr./Jr. Drive. This road will take you back to Donora Veteran’s Memorial and the Stan “The Man” Musial Bridge. Named in 2016 after father and son (George) Kenneth Griffey Sr. and (George) Kenneth Griffey Jr., the same summer that Ken Griffey Jr. was inducted into Major League Baseball’s Hall of Fame. This area also would have been the original site of West Columbia.
NOTE 10: Continue on Ken Griffey Sr./Jr. Drive and to the intersection of McKean Avenue in front of Link’s Dari-Delight, make a left back on to McKean Avenue to make a left onto the Stan “The Man” Musial Bridge, if that is in fact your way home.
GALIFFA DRIVE - Finish
INDUSTRIAL PARK - Footprint of the AS&W Steel Works and Zinc Works - end
INDUSTRIAL PARK - Footprint of the AS&W Steel Works and Zinc Works - end
MONONGAHELA RIVERBANK - Start
This is a Walking Tour ONLY!
After you venture down the Monongahela Riverfront Access mentioned above, you will be briefly heading south on the Monongahela riverbank but will be mostly heading north for the remainder of your walking tour. Depending on the water level, you can hike the entire 2.5 miles of Donora shoreline. Over twenty landmarks and artifacts can be seen, most of which are related to Donora Zinc Works and AS&W Steel Works. A rise in the water level due to heavy rains may inhibit you from hiking the riverbank without getting wet.
NOTE: Since this is the only entry point to the river, you will need to return to the start, meaning that if you do the entire hike, you will hike five miles roundtrip. Allow three to four hours for hiking and exploring.
NOTE: This tour is only possible because of the removal of the Elizabeth Lock and Dam in 2024. This resulted in the drop of the Monongahela River water level by three feet and exposing an additional ten to twenty feet of shoreline.
NOTE: Due to areas of uneven surfaces due to slag dumped over a century ago, a good pair of hiking boots or sneakers, and a walking stick are suggested.
NOTE: Due to the shear slag cliffs that line the entire riverbank, you will NOT be able to orient yourself by Donora buildings and landmarks since you can't see over the cliffs. It will be best to mark your progress by tracking yourself on your cell phone using a mapping tool that also gives you GPS coordinates.
NOTE: Understanding your cell phone's mapping tool that provides you with GPS coordinates will enable you to find the landmarks and artifacts mentioned below. Their GPS coordinates are provided for just this purpose.
NOTE: The Monongahela riverbank is isolated, so taking a cell phone in case of emergency is a great idea. Taking bottled water for hydration is also suggested.
This is a Walking Tour ONLY!
After you venture down the Monongahela Riverfront Access mentioned above, you will be briefly heading south on the Monongahela riverbank but will be mostly heading north for the remainder of your walking tour. Depending on the water level, you can hike the entire 2.5 miles of Donora shoreline. Over twenty landmarks and artifacts can be seen, most of which are related to Donora Zinc Works and AS&W Steel Works. A rise in the water level due to heavy rains may inhibit you from hiking the riverbank without getting wet.
NOTE: Since this is the only entry point to the river, you will need to return to the start, meaning that if you do the entire hike, you will hike five miles roundtrip. Allow three to four hours for hiking and exploring.
NOTE: This tour is only possible because of the removal of the Elizabeth Lock and Dam in 2024. This resulted in the drop of the Monongahela River water level by three feet and exposing an additional ten to twenty feet of shoreline.
NOTE: Due to areas of uneven surfaces due to slag dumped over a century ago, a good pair of hiking boots or sneakers, and a walking stick are suggested.
NOTE: Due to the shear slag cliffs that line the entire riverbank, you will NOT be able to orient yourself by Donora buildings and landmarks since you can't see over the cliffs. It will be best to mark your progress by tracking yourself on your cell phone using a mapping tool that also gives you GPS coordinates.
NOTE: Understanding your cell phone's mapping tool that provides you with GPS coordinates will enable you to find the landmarks and artifacts mentioned below. Their GPS coordinates are provided for just this purpose.
NOTE: The Monongahela riverbank is isolated, so taking a cell phone in case of emergency is a great idea. Taking bottled water for hydration is also suggested.
NOTE: Monongahela Riverbank heading south
(GH) Concrete Arched Stream Outlet - As you approach the Monongahela River at the bottom of the riverfront access, bear right to go south. As you cross the stream, you'll see a concrete block arched stream outlet that is probably well over 100-years-old since it goes underneath where slag was once dumped in the early 1900s. The opening is close to six-feet high. It is believed it carries the stream that runs next to the Annex behind the Donora High School and the stream that runs in the ravine behind the housing plan behind Second Street Extension. These two streams join into one behind the Incinerator and that stream runs parallel to Chestnut Street down to the Mon River via this outlet. This is to the left of 65 Washington Street across the street from Apex International. NOTE: This stream contains tainted water. You should consider stepping on stones to cross it and not getting your shoes wet. (GPS: 40.16398,-79.8602)
(GH) AS&W Ore Yard Pump House - Southern View - After you cross the stream, you'll see what remains of the American Steel & Wire Ore Yard Pump House that is well over 100 years old. This concrete structure was used to pump river water into the steel mill. It's almost under the Stan "The Man" Musial Bridge. (GPS: 40.16335,-79.86145)
(GH) AS&W Ore Yard Pump House Openings - Southern View - As you approach the Pump House, depending on the height of the river, this may be the farthest you can hike south on the riverbank without getting wet. If you peek to the front, you'll see what remains of the American Steel & Wire Ore Yard Pump House that is well over 100 years old. You can see the half-moon intake inlets used to pump river water into the steel mill. These openings are almost under the Stan "The Man" Musial Bridge. (GPS: 40.16325,-79.86144)
(GH) AS&W Ore Yard Pump House Openings - Northern View - If the riverbank was dry enough to walk in front of, you can continue south to see the lefthand side of this huge structure that of what remains of the American Steel & Wire Ore Yard Pump House that is well over 100 years old. It's almost under the Stan "The Man" Musial Bridge. You can see the half-moon intake inlets used to pump river water into the steel mill. These openings are almost under the Stan "The Man" Musial Bridge. (GPS: 40.163302,-79.861682)
(SM)(GH) Stan “The Man” Musial Bridge – Ground was broken in 1968, and the bridge was built in 1972 and previously called the Donora-Monessen Bridge. On May 4, 2012, this bridge was ceremoniously renamed after Donora native and St. Louis Cardinal baseball great Stan “The Man” Musial. The bridge spans over the Monongahela River linking Donora to Monessen and Rostraver Township. This is an underside view of the bridge. (GPS: 40.16309.-79.86138)
(GH) AS&W River Barge Boat Dock - Southern View - After the Pump House, you can continue south, but this is definitely the farthest you can hike south on the riverbank without getting wet. For the most part, this is also the end of Donora. This boat dock was made by stacking river barges on top of each other and end-to-end and probably is well over 80 years old. (GPS: 40.163211,-79.862345)
(GH) AS&W River Barge Boat Dock - Northern View - After the Pump House, you can continue south, but this is definitely the farthest you can hike south on the riverbank without getting wet. For the most part, this is also the end of Donora. This boat dock was made by stacking river barges on top of each other and end-to-end and probably is well over 80 years old. (GPS: 40.16317,-79.862639)
(GH) AS&W River Barge Boat Dock - River View - After the Pump House and south of the Stan Musial Bridge is the River Barge Boat Dock. This dock cannot be seen on foot, only from the water. This boat dock was made by stacking river barges on top of each other and end-to-end, three barges long, and probably is well over 80 years old. (GPS: from the Mon River)
(GH) AS&W River Barge Boat Dock - River View - After the Pump House and south of the Stan Musial Bridge is the River Barge Boat Dock. This dock cannot be seen on foot, only from the water. This boat dock was made by stacking river barges on top of each other and end-to-end, three barges long, and probably is well over 80 years old. (GPS: from the Mon River)
(GH) AS&W Boat Dock - River View - After the River Barge Boat Dock is another Boat Dock. This dock cannot be seen on foot, only from the water. This is what remains of an original boat dock of American Steel & Wire Company (AS&W) that is well over 80 years old. There are two 30+ foot dock mooring towers still with rope and cables attached from long ago that stand in the Mon River. (GPS: from the Mon River)
NOTE: Return to where you started on the Monongahela Riverbank heading north.
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Slag Button #1 - Shortly after the steel mill was producing steel, the waste byproduct of slag had to be dumped somewhere. AS&W initially dumped their molten slag along the Monongahela River to solidify and build up the seawall to protect the mill against flooding. The Donora Southern Railroad sat right next to the river to carry slag cars to build up the shoreline. On occasion, slag pots filled with molten slag had a high content of iron that would settle to the bottom of the pot and solidify into a "button" or mushroom shape before being dumped but came loose during the slag dumping process. This is an example of one of these buttons discarded by the Donora Southern Railroad. Most of the time they helped form the seawall, while other times they just rolled toward the river like this one that measures three to four feet in diameter. This particular slag button sits on the riverbank between Apex International at 65 Washington Street and Therm-O-Rock Inc. at 85 Washington Street. (GPS: 40.16621,-79.85668)
(GH) Miscellaneous Steel Part - We have no idea where this large steel part came from but has slag attached to it. We assume this was dropped off of a slag car and rolled over the riverbank, but this part could have also come from a river barge. Because slag is still attached, we assume this part is over 100 years old. This steel part sits on the riverbank between Apex International at 65 Washington Street and Therm-O-Rock Inc. at 85 Washington Street. (GPS: 40.166795,-79.856743)
(GH) Wooden Beam Structure - At some point, there was either a steel mill structure here made from wooden beams and joined by iron pegs, or this is what's left over from a sunken riverboat that drifted to shore. Regardless, these wooden beams are very old and could be 100 years old or older. There are multiple holes drilled through the beams, some are filled with pegs while other are empty. These wooden beams sit on the riverbank between Apex International at 65 Washington Street and Therm-O-Rock Inc. at 85 Washington Street, but closer to Therm-O-Rock. (GPS: XXX 40.166942,-79.856056)
(GH) Concrete Arched Stream Outlet #2 - As you approach the AS&W Steel Works Boat Dock with three piers, higher up on the slag seawall that is not easily seen when the trees are green, you'll see a concrete block arched stream outlet that is probably well over 100-years-old since it goes underneath where slag was once dumped in the early 1900s. The opening is close to six-feet high. A concrete rectangular block wall that is around 10-feet tall, supports the arch and helps ease the drainage down the wall. This particular artifact is located on the riverbank around the intersection of where First Street and Washington Street meet above. (GPS: 40.16938,-79.85419)
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Concrete Pier - This tipped over concrete pier measures about five feet long. We are unsure, but our assumption is that this may not have been the original location for this pier that may have toppled from up above when the steel mill was dismantled. This particular artifact is located on the riverbank around the intersection of where First Street and Washington Street meet above. (GPS: 40.16985,-79.85374)
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Slag Button #2 - Shortly after the steel mill was producing steel, the waste byproduct of slag had to be dumped somewhere. AS&W initially dumped their molten slag along the Monongahela River to solidify and build up the seawall to protect the mill against flooding. The Donora Southern Railroad sat right next to the river to carry slag cars to build up the shoreline. On occasion, slag pots filled with molten slag had a high content of iron that would settle to the bottom of the pot and solidify into a "button" or mushroom shape before being dumped but came loose during the slag dumping process. This is another example of one of these buttons discarded by the Donora Southern Railroad. Most of the time they helped form the seawall, while other times they just rolled toward the river like this one that measures two to three feet in diameter. This particular slag button sits on the riverbank to the left or south of the Regal Industrial Corporation at 98 First Street. (GPS: 40.17116,-79.8531)
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Boat Dock - This is what remains of an original boat dock of American Steel & Wire Company (AS&W) that is well over 100 years old. There are three dock mooring towers still with rope and cables attached from long ago. These three 30+ foot towers stand in the Mon River and sit to the left or south of the Regal Industrial Corporation at 98 First Street. (GPS: 40.17113,-79.85307)
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Slag Wall Runoff - Shortly after the steel mill was producing steel, the waste byproduct of slag had to be dumped somewhere. AS&W initially dumped their molten slag along the Monongahela River to solidify and build up the seawall to protect the mill against flooding. The Donora Southern Railroad sat right next to the river to carry slag cars to build up the shoreline. Some of the molten slag ran off toward the river before it solidified. This runoff is very difficult to walk on as you will learn if you continue to venture north. This section is a good example of what the slag runoff looks like and sits behind the Regal Industrial Corporation at 98 First Street. (GPS: 40.17177,-79.85312)
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Slag Wall - Shortly after the steel mill was producing steel, the waste byproduct of slag had to be dumped somewhere. AS&W initially dumped their molten slag along the Monongahela River to solidify and build up the seawall to protect the mill against flooding. The Donora Southern Railroad sat right next to the river to carry slag cars to build up the shoreline. This 30-foot-high wall or cliff stretches the entire length of Donora for 2.5 miles and inhibits any access to the Mon River. This section is a good example of what the slag wall looks like and sits behind the Regal Industrial Corporation at 98 First Street. (GPS: 40.17206,-79.85245)
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Iron Steps and Docking Wall - The assumption is that this was a dock of some sort with a set of concrete steps at the river level in case the river was running high. The steps transition to multiple flights of iron steps that can take workers to and from the steel works level above or back to a boat below. A high concrete wall is also part of this dock. If you decide to climb these steps, safety is the key. These steps and dock sit behind the Regal Industrial Corporation at 98 First Street. WARNING: The steps may have a locked gate above that will inhibit you from returning to the level in which you started. It may be a good idea to NOT climb these steps. (GPS: 40.17210,-79.85256)
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Steel Wall - Just to the right of the Iron Steps and Docking Wall shown above is a long steel channel wall that is about eight to ten feet tall. This appears to be part of the same dock. This wall sits to the right or north of the Regal Industrial Corporation at 98 First Street. (GPS: 40.1724,-79.85244)
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Slag Layers - Shortly after the steel mill was producing steel, the waste byproduct of slag had to be dumped somewhere. AS&W initially dumped their molten slag along the Monongahela River to solidify and build up the seawall to protect the mill against flooding. The Donora Southern Railroad sat right next to the river to carry slag cars to build up the shoreline. Since steel was produced around the clock, slag had to be dumped, slag car by slag car forming layer by layer four to six inches thick. This section is a good example of what slag layers look like and sits just north or to the right of the Regal Industrial Corporation at 98 First Street. (GPS: 40.17247,-79.85244)
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Large Steps - Here is set of three or four very large and high concrete steps that we assume were used to support something rather than being used for workers as actual steps. These steps sit just south or to the left of Bergen Piping at 484 Galiffa Drive. (GPS: 40.17296,-79.85197)
(GH) Brick Oval Drain Hole - Here you'll see a brick oval drain hole that is probably well over 100-years-old since it goes underneath where slag was once dumped in the early 1900s. The opening is close to four-feet high and is about three of four feet above a pool that eventually empties into the Mon River. This drain hole sits just north or to the right of Bergen Piping at 484 Galiffa Drive. (GPS: 40.17522,-79.85147)
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Slag Beach - This beach made of slag deposits is a very flat and wide sits in front of the Brick Oval Drain Hole mentioned above. This slag beach sits just north or to the right of Bergen Piping at 484 Galiffa Drive. (GPS: 40.17522,-79.85146)
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Concrete Corner - Here is a very large concrete corner bases that we assume was used to support something related to the steel mill. This concrete corner sits just north or to the right of Roll-R-Way at 590 Galiffa Driver or at the end of Sixth Street. (GPS: 40.17753,-79.85162)
(GH) Brick Arched Drain Hole - Here you'll see a brick arched drain hole that is probably well over 100-years-old since it goes underneath where slag was once dumped in the early 1900s. The opening is about two feet wide. This drain hole sits very low on the slag wall and was probably under water for many years until 2024.This drain hole sits between Sixth and Seventh Streets. (GPS: 40.17812,-79.85164)
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Concrete Bases - Here is set of two very large concrete bases that we assume were used to support something related to the steel mill. These bases sit just north or to the right of Tech Met at 79 E. Eighth Street. (GPS: 40.18046,-79.85187)
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Concrete Steps 1 - Here is set of concrete steps that we assume led to the level above and into the mill site and to get workers to and from the riverbank. They are currently blocked by a concrete block wall. While the concrete steps are probably at least 100-years-old, the concrete block wall isn't that old. A couple of iron grates sit above the steps at the upper level probably used as a bridge when the steps were open. These steps sit just north or to the right of Tech Met at 79 E. Eighth Street or at the very end of Eighth Street. (GPS: 40.18048,-79.85207)
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Concrete Steps 2 - Here is set of nine or ten concrete steps that we assume led to some other structure to get workers to and from the riverbank. Perhaps they existed before slag was dumped along the riverbank and were eventually covered with slag. These steps sit just behind A-1 Babbitt and Machine between Tenth and Eleventh Streets. (GPS: 40.18452,-79.85302)
(GH) Stone High-Arched Drain Hole - Here you'll see a stone high-arched drain hole that is probably well over 100-years-old since it goes underneath where slag was once dumped in the early 1900s. Since this is not concrete or brick and is made of stone, this may be one of the oldest sites along the Mon River in Donora. The opening is four to five feet high. This drain hole sits just north or to the right of Elliott Company Piping between Twelfth and Thirteenth Street. (GPS: 40.18708,-79.85389)
(GH) Donora Zinc Works Iron Drainpipes - There are two iron drainpipes that appear to be dry and are probably well over 100-years-old since they go underneath where slag was once dumped in the early 1900s. The Donora Zinc Works were built in 1915 so probably date to around that time. They probably sat underwater for years due to their deteriorated condition. The pipe on the left has sections bolted together, while the pipe on the right is a larger diameter. These drainpipes sit behind Dyno Nobel at Scott Street. (GPS: 40.1894,-79.85476)
(GH) Donora Zinc Works Boat Dock Wide Tower - This is what remains of an original boat dock of the Donora Zinc Works that is over 100 years old. There are four total dock mooring towers with this being the widest of the four. All four towers stand in the Mon River and sit behind Dyno Nobel at Scott Street. (GPS: 40.18948,-79.85471)
(GH) Donora Zinc Works Boat Dock Thin Towers - This is what remains of an original boat dock of the Donora Zinc Works that is over 100 years old. There are four total dock mooring towers with this photo showing the other three thinner towers. All four towers stand in the Mon River and sit to the right or north of Dyno Nobel at Scott Street. (GPS: 40.18986,-79.85493)
(GH) Donora Zinc Works Boat Dock Southern View - This is what remains of an original boat dock of the Donora Zinc Works that is over 100 years old. There are four total dock mooring towers with this photo showing a southern view of the first three towers including the wider tower and two of the thinner towers. All four towers stand in the Mon River and sit to the right or north of Dyno Nobel at Scott Street. (GPS: 40.19028,-79.8553)
(GH) AS&W Steel Works Slag Button #3 - Shortly after the steel mill was producing steel, the waste byproduct of slag had to be dumped somewhere. AS&W initially dumped their molten slag along the Monongahela River to solidify and build up the seawall to protect the mill against flooding. The Donora Southern Railroad sat right next to the river to carry slag cars to build up the shoreline. On occasion, slag pots filled with molten slag had a high content of iron that would settle to the bottom of the pot and solidify into a "button" or mushroom shape before being dumped but came loose during the slag dumping process. This is another example of one of these buttons discarded by the Donora Southern Railroad. Most of the time they helped form the seawall, while other times they just rolled toward the river like this one that measures three to four feet in diameter. This particular slag button sits on the riverbank to the right or north of Dyno Nobel at Scott Street. (GPS: 40.19058,-79.85539)
(GH) Monongahela River Sandy Beach - After hiking beyond the northern end of what was once the footprint of the AS&W Steel Works and Donora Zinc Works, the slag deposits along the riverbank lessen and the shoreline returns to regular sand. After the riverbank was built up with slag, the slag dumping would continue up in Palmer Park. This is a very nice and walkable riverbank section in Donora that merges into Carroll Twp. Hiking further north will result into you running into the river docks of the very active Donora River Terminal's coalfield that stores coal before it goes to the US Steel Clairton Coke Works. This sandy beach would be opposite the entrance to Palmer Park. (GPS: 40.19459,-79.86189)
MONONGAHELA RIVERBANK - Finish
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