The Historical Society of Western Pennsylvania (HSWP) is a cultural organization in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. After several attempts during the early and mid-century to establish a historical society, an organization called Old Residents of Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania was formed on January 10, 1859.

In 1879, the Old Residents of Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania established a historical society to help preserve local history. Five years later, the name changed to the Historical Society of Western Pennsylvania and has been in continuous existence for more than 135 years.

The Historical Society of Western Pennsylvania has played a vital role in preserving and promoting the region's history for over 180 years. Its collection and programs continue to educate and inspire visitors to learn more about the rich history of Western Pennsylvania.

Founded in 1879, the Library & Archives preserves the rich history of Western Pennsylvania, and makes its collections accessible to researchers, students, and the general public. The Library & Archives collection includes: 700,000 photographs, prints, and negatives; 40,000 books, pamphlets, and monographs

This Web site enables access to historic material held by the University of Pittsburgh’s University Library System, the Library & Archives of the Historical Society of Western Pennsylvania at the Heinz History Center, Carnegie Museum of Art, and Chatham College Archives.

Jan 16, 2025 · Devoted to the history and heritage of Western Pennsylvania, the History Center (legal name – the Historical Society of Western Pennsylvania) is Pennsylvania’s largest history museum and a proud affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution.

The library and archives date back to 1879, the founding of the Historical Society of Western Pennsylvania. It houses a vast collection of over 40,000 books, pamphlets, and monographs along with 3,500 archival family collections, organizations, businesses, industries.

The Historical Society of Western Pennsylvania (HSWP) is a cultural organization in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. After several attempts during the early and mid-century to establish a historical society, an organization called Old Residents of Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania was formed on January 10, 1859.

May 1, 2023 · Devoted to the history and heritage of Western Pennsylvania, the History Center (legal name – the Historical Society of Western Pennsylvania) is Pennsylvania’s largest history museum and a proud affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution.

The Western Pennsylvania Historical Society maintains an extensive library and archives available for research. Come and visit us at the Senator John Heinz Pittsburgh Regional History Center, view our many exhibits such as Isaly's Dairy and Heinz 57.