Pitcairn Historical Society

07/12/2026

It was a proud day to be a Pitcairner!!! What were the chances that this legendary locomotive would make an unscheduled stop right here in our hometown? We were standing on the western end of what was once one of the largest and most important railroad transfer yards in the world.

As Big Boy approached, the town of Pitcairn could be seen in the background...a truly unforgettable sight. Then, to everyone's amazement, its massive driving wheels came to a stop directly alongside us. Those of us gathered at the viewing area were treated to an unexpected half-hour pause in Big Boy's historic journey across America. What an incredible honor for this great railroad town! To witness the world's largest operating steam locomotive stop at such an historically significant railroad location made the moment even more meaningful.

As reported by TribLive on Sunday:
"...the train sped through Derry and did not appear to slow down as it moved toward Latrobe, Greensburg, Jeannette, Irwin, North Huntingdon and Trafford. The locomotive stopped in Pitcairn, Allegheny County, before making its way to Leetsdale for a public viewing opportunity. It will stop for the night in Conway, its last stop in Pennsylvania before it enters Ohio."

What a treasured moment in time for the people of Pitcairn and Wall, especially for the descendants of the thousands of men and women who worked in the historic Pitcairn railyard during the 19th and 20th centuries. They were truly blessed to witness this unexpected stop at the very place where one of America's most legendary railroad yards once began. We heard several theories about why the locomotive stopped here, but honestly, we didn't care. We had just been given the railroad experience of a lifetime.

Big Boy's departure video
https://www.facebook.com/722940629/videos/pcb.10164587251250630/1668018777645404

If you were there, we'd love to hear about your experience. Feel free to like, share, and leave a comment!

Big Boy's departure from the Pitcairn yard video, and photo credits to Amie Brady - Pitcairn Historical Society photographer

Please consider supporting the Pitcairn Historical Society and the restoration of the historic Pitcairn Schoolhouse through a donation or sponsorship. Every contribution, large or small, helps bring new life to this treasured landmark and strengthens our community's commitment to preserving Pitcairn's rich history. To inquire about donation or sponsorship opportunities, please contact us at [email protected]

07/10/2026

Railroad fans, history buffs, and families...don't miss this incredible opportunity!

Union Pacific's legendary Big Boy No. 4014, the world's largest operating steam locomotive, is expected to steam through Pitcairn tomorrow (Saturday) as part of its historic America 250 Tour.

While there are no scheduled stops in our area, you'll have the rare chance to see this engineering marvel roll through town. Current estimates have it passing through sometime between 3:00 and 6:00 PM, so plan to arrive somewhere along the rails early, and keep an eye on the tracks!

Built during the golden age of steam, Big Boy No. 4014 is making its first-ever East Coast tour to help celebrate America's 250th anniversary. The journey includes a Fourth of July celebration in Philadelphia, major display events in eight cities, and more than 50 whistle-stops across 10 states—including its first visits to Indiana, Ohio, New York, and Pennsylvania.

Whether you're a lifelong railfan or simply want to witness a piece of living history, this is a sight you won't soon forget!

If you catch Big Boy rolling through Pitcairn, be sure to share your photos in the comments!

07/06/2026

We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Please mark your calendars and join us on Saturday, August 8 for a delicious lunch while supporting the James R. Fox Pitcairn Historical Society and the continued restoration of the Historic Pitcairn Schoolhouse. Bring your family, invite your friends, and come enjoy great food for a great cause. Every purchase helps preserve an important part of Pitcairn's history for future generations.

Thank you for your continued support, and we'll see you on August 8!

07/03/2026

https://www.alfierifuneralhome.com/obituary/SamJButch-Bacco

Pitcairn Friends,
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of an unofficial, but very much appreciated, member of our Schoolhouse family.

Sam Bacco, who generously volunteered at several of our Schoolhouse events, passed away suddenly on Monday. Sam was always willing to lend a helping hand, and his kindness and support meant a great deal to our organization.

Our heartfelt prayers and deepest sympathies go out to the entire Bacco family during this difficult time. May God grant them strength, comfort, and peace in the days ahead.

Rest in peace, Sam. Thank you for all you did to support the Schoolhouse and our mission. You will be greatly missed, but never forgotten. 🙏❤️

Celebrate the life of Sam J. "Butch" Bacco and join others in sharing memories, stories, and condolences.

07/01/2026

Pitcairn Friends, SAVE THE DATE!

Let's Do Lunch!

Join us for our 2nd Burger Blast of the year...coming just one week after the Independence Day 250 celebration!

Bring your family, invite your friends, and enjoy a delicious lunch while supporting the James R. Fox Pitcairn Historical Society and the continued restoration of the Historic Pitcairn Schoolhouse.

Your support helps preserve our community's history for future generations.

We hope you can make it!

06/30/2026

Pitcairn Hometown Hero Banner Program Update

The Pitcairn Hometown Hero Committee would like to let everyone know that, due to a health issue, the owner of Carl Signs is currently unable to produce banners.

They are hopeful that within the next two weeks they will have more information regarding the situation and whether banner production will continue with Carl Signs or if they will need to secure a new printing company.

In the meantime, they kindly ask for your patience and request that everyone hold off on submitting any new banner orders until they have an update.

If your banner has not yet been installed, please know that they have not forgotten you. They are committed to getting every banner produced and displayed as soon as they are able.

They would like to thank you for your understanding, patience, and continued support of the Pitcairn Hometown Hero Banner Program.

06/21/2026

If anyone needs photos made for the Hometown Hero banners call me.
Peggy Jae Cotter 412-580-1342

06/11/2026

3 DAYS LEFT!
HONOR A PITCAIRN ORGANIZATION OR GROUP!
Would you like to honor a current or former Pitcairn organization with a commemorative brick in the Pitcairn Schoolhouse Phase 2 Brick Patio?

Organizations already honored in Phases 1 & 2 include:
• Pitcairn High School
• Pitcairn High School Alumni Association
• Pitcairn Camp G
• Pitcairn Camp B
• Pitcairn Lions Club
• Pitcairn Woman's Club
• Pitcairn Italian Club

Some past and present Pitcairn organizations and groups that may be considered include:
Order of the Eastern Star • Pitcairn Italian Barbell Club • Pitcairn Fire Company #1 • Pitcairn Relief Company #2 • Pitcairn Rainbow Girls • Pitcairn Meals on Wheels • Pitcairn Churches & Church Fellowship • Pitcairn American Legion Post 256 • Pitcairn Boy Scouts • Pitcairn Girl Scouts • Pitcairn Jr. Mohawks Football • Pitcairn Baseball • Pitcairn Girls Softball • Pitcairn Business Association • PitCare • Gateway School District • Propel • Gateway Alumni Network

If you would like to honor another Pitcairn organization or group, simply visit:
www.theschoolhouse.net/contact

In the message box, type:
"Please email me a Schoolhouse brick order form."

IMPORTANT: To ensure bricks are installed in time for our September Dedication Ceremony, all orders must be received by June 13. Help preserve and celebrate Pitcairn's rich history, one brick at a time!

Help us recognize the organizations that have contributed so much to the life and history of our community.

06/08/2026

🎉 100 BRICKS SOLD! 🎉

A huge THANK YOU to everyone who has purchased a commemorative brick for the Pitcairn Schoolhouse Phase 2 Brick Patio Project! Because of your support, we've now reached 100 bricks sold, helping preserve and celebrate an important part of Pitcairn's history for future generations.

There's still time to be part of this lasting tribute! We have 6 days remaining to place your order before the deadline.

Whether you'd like to honor a loved one, commemorate your family, recognize an organization, or simply show your support for the Schoolhouse, we'd love to include your brick in Phase 2.

For information or an order form, contact us at:
📧 [email protected]

Thank you again for helping make this project such a success!

The Schoolhouse Team