Rivers of Steel

Founded on the principles of heritage development, community partnership, and a reverence for the region’s natural and shared resources, Rivers of Steel strengthens the economic and cultural fabric of western Pennsylvania by fostering dynamic initiatives and transformative experiences.

Through its historical & 21st-century attractions, Rivers of Steel showcases the artistry and innovation of our region’s industrial and cultural heritage—offering unique experiences via tours, workshops, exhibitions, festivals, and more.

Behind the scenes, Rivers of Steel supports economic revitalization—working on the grassroots level to deepen community partnerships, promote heritage tourism, and preserve local recreational and cultural resources for future generations.

While 2020 has been challenging, Rivers of Steel has done what it does best—rise to a challenge. An innovative approach to programming and problem solving is part of the organization’s and the region’s DNA. We have always cut a different path and adapted to the changing needs of our communities.

Because of this organizational culture, Rivers of Steel’s dedicated staff quickly adjusted—developing up new programs customized for the specific needs created by the pandemic and finding new ways to engage with audiences.

Experiences such as the Carrie Carpool Cinema and the LightPlay exhibition welcomed many first-time audiences to the Carrie Blast Furnaces National Historic Landmark, while modified tours of the site provide rich, cultural experiences in an outdoor space.

Arts-based collaborations such as the Homestead Streetside Gallery with the Steel Valley Arts Council and the Black on Black Love—A Public Art Action with Boom Concepts, addressed community perceptions and social justice initiatives.

To help meet the increased need for online learning resources, Rivers of Steel educators created digital offerings that are useful for virtual, in-person, and hybrid classrooms, as well as for homeschool co-ops and at-home enrichment. And a new tour featuring the industrial legacy of the Monongahela River was piloted on the Explorer riverboat!

With generous support received from local foundations, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, other funding partners, Rivers of Steel endured 2020, retaining a full staff and offering new, innovative experiences for audiences seeking culture, education, community, and joy in trying times.

Help preserve our region’s industrial heritage. Your tax-deductible contribution this season will ensure that in 2021 Rivers of Steel can continue to offer vital, engaging, community-based, arts, education, and heritage programs for the residents of southwestern Pennsylvania and beyond.

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