Heinz History Center

Trail / Park Info:

Parking: There is paid parking available directly across from the museum, and lots of other lots all around the building. I would suggest looking around on google maps and familiarizing yourself with the parking options.

Directions on PCs: Locate the Google map below the search box on the right-hand side of this webpage. Click “Get Directions” on the map pin details.

The Heinz History Museum in Pittsburgh is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the rich cultural heritage of the city and the Heinz brand. Located in the historic Strip District, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of the region and the people who have called it home.

The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the history of Pittsburgh’s sports teams, the city’s industrial heritage, and the stories of immigrants who have settled in the area. However, the centerpiece of the museum is the Heinz exhibit, which chronicles the history of the Heinz brand and its impact on American culture.

Visitors to the museum will be fascinated by the story of Henry John Heinz, who started the company in 1869 with a commitment to producing high-quality, affordable food products. The Heinz exhibit showcases the company’s iconic products, including ketchup, pickles, and baked beans, and explores the innovative marketing strategies that helped to make the brand a household name.

The Willys MB was a four-wheel drive, lightweight vehicle that was designed for use on rough terrain. It was first produced in 1941 by Willys-Overland Motors, which won a contract to build the vehicle for the U.S. military after successfully completing rigorous testing and evaluation.

The Willys MB was powered by a four-cylinder, 60-horsepower engine and could reach a top speed of around 65 miles per hour. It had a range of 300 miles on a single tank of gas and was equipped with a fold-down windshield, a removable canvas top, and a machine gun mount.

The Willys MB was widely used by the U.S. military in a variety of roles during World War II, including as a reconnaissance vehicle, troop transport, and weapons carrier. It was prized for its durability, reliability, and ability to navigate difficult terrain.

The Willys MB became known as the “Willys Jeep” because of its small size and maneuverability. The term “jeep” was originally used as a slang term for any vehicle that could travel over rough terrain, but it eventually became synonymous with the Willys MB and its many imitators.

After the war, the Willys Jeep became a popular civilian vehicle, and it remains an iconic symbol of American military history. Today, the Willys MB is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, and it continues to be recognized as one of the most important vehicles of World War II.

In addition to the Heinz exhibit, the museum also features a variety of interactive exhibits and multimedia displays that engage visitors of all ages. The Sports Museum, for example, allows visitors to test their skills in a variety of sports-related challenges, while the Pittsburgh: A Tradition of Innovation exhibit showcases the region’s contributions to science and technology.

There is also an exciting exhibit dedicated to Elektro, the mechanical man built by the Westinghouse Electric Corporation between 1937 and 1938. Standing at seven feet tall and weighing 265 pounds, Elektro was humanoid in appearance and could walk by voice command, speak about 700 words using a 78-rpm record player, smoke cigarettes, blow up balloons, and move his head and arms.

Visitors to the museum can see a replica of the original Elektro robot on display, along with his companion Sparko, a robot dog that could bark, sit, and beg to humans. The exhibit showcases the impressive engineering and technological advancements that went into creating this early example of a humanoid robot, which was a sensation at the 1939 New York World’s Fair and made a return appearance in 1940.

Another fascinating aspect of the Heinz exhibit is the collection of vintage advertising materials, including posters, billboards, and television commercials. These artifacts provide a glimpse into the changing tastes and attitudes of American consumers over the years, as well as the evolution of marketing techniques.

The Heinz History Museum in Pittsburgh features a special section dedicated to the beloved children’s television host, Mr. Rogers, and his iconic show, “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” Visitors to the museum can explore the life and legacy of Fred Rogers, learning about his impact on generations of children and his enduring influence on American culture.

The Mr. Rogers exhibit at the Heinz History Museum includes a wide range of artifacts and memorabilia from the show, including original sets, costumes, and props. Visitors can step inside a replica of the “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” living room, complete with the familiar trolley and miniature Neighborhood of Make-Believe.

Overall, the Mr. Rogers exhibit at the Heinz History Museum is a wonderful tribute to one of the most beloved figures in American television history. The exhibit provides a nostalgic trip down memory lane for those who grew up watching “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” and an inspiring introduction to a new generation of fans who are discovering the show for the first time.

Overall, the Heinz History Museum is an excellent destination for anyone interested in learning more about the rich cultural heritage of Pittsburgh and the Heinz brand. With its engaging exhibits and interactive displays, the museum offers a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. So, the next time you’re in Pittsburgh, be sure to add the Heinz History Museum to your itinerary!