McKees Rocks Historical Society

Many of us remember going to West View Park… just across the Rocks bridge…

On this day in 1906, West View Park officially opened for its very first season! 🎡

Located just north of Pittsburgh, the park quickly became a favorite destination for generations of Pittsburghers. Founder T.M. Harton kept the excitement rolling with iconic attractions like the Ferris Wheel, The Dips, and the Speed-O-Plane after his original business partner left to help develop Kennywood.

By the 1930s, the park’s famous ballroom became the place to be, and after reopening as Danceland in 1945, it hosted legendary acts including The Rolling Stones.

After 71 seasons, West View Park closed in 1977, but for many Pittsburghers, the memories ride on.

📸 Riders on West View Park’s Racing Whippet, c. 1950s-60s.

Well here’s something new!!!

Today, two members of the McKees Rocks Historical Society planted flowers and cleaned up Five Point Park. It was a last minute decision and we didn’t ask for help. We cleaned up the considerable amount of trash but face a challenge with the large amount of poison ivy. We planted flowers and added fresh soil because the existing soil was very bad. Special thanks to MarySue Flick who planted pansies in the planters and in front of the signs and also to the VFW for the flags. It makes us sad and angry that the people who are always complaining about our town are never the ones who show up to help. If you are interested in helping us maintain this park, please contact Sandy Saban or message the McKees Rocks Historical Society.

This Memorial Day weekend, we pay tribute to some of our local heroes who gave their lives for our freedom, may their memory be eternal.

Twenty-three years ago, Ohio Valley Acres celebrated its past.

Thank you to Casey who sent us this photo that she discovered in a Goodwill outlet store in Pittsburgh. The photo studio was Mahan & Wright at 518 Chartiers Avenue. It is said that they moved there in 1903 which coincides with the man’s attire. She would like to reunite him with his family. Anyone out there recognize this gentleman?

&wrightstudio