Our Mission
We operate our museum and research facility to preserve and present the history of McKeesport and its surrounding communities for public education and enjoyment.
Our Vision
We’re creating a community (members, visitors, and residents…past, present, and future) with a greater understanding and appreciation of this region’s history and its diverse cultural heritage.
Founded in 1980, the McKeesport Regional History & Heritage Center is a non-profit museum and research facility dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of the Mon Valley. Our museum proudly houses the very first schoolhouse erected in McKeesport, in 1832, and showcases 7 rooms of local memorabilia and a research library. Some of our exhibits include Helen Richey, a recreation of Fifth Avenue, and an extensive sports exhibit. Museum collection pieces and research materials are donated by private individuals, businesses, and organizations.
Our members hail from local neighborhoods and across the United States. Membership includes complimentary entrance to most programs, private tour arrangements, gift shop discounts, the use of an extensive research archive, and access to our ancestry.com and newspapers.com subscriptions. For more information about our membership, please visit here.
In addition to our museum, we are also a Center offering community events, educational programs, and interactive historical reenactments. We offer complimentary daily admission and complimentary admission to a variety of our programs.
The Heritage Center is guided by a Board of Directors and supported by a small but dedicated staff. At the heart of our operation are our volunteers who are here to help us with collections, operations, and putting on our programs and events. If you are interested in getting involved with us, visit our volunteer webpage or subscribe to our newsletter to hear about new opportunities.