North Braddock, PA
County: Allegheny
History
North Braddock, Pennsylvania is a small borough located in Allegheny County, within the Pittsburgh metropolitan area. The history of North Braddock is deeply intertwined with the growth and development of the steel industry in the region.
The settlement of the area now known as North Braddock began in the early 19th century. Initially, the land was primarily agricultural, with farms and small homesteads scattered throughout the area. However, with the construction of railroads in the mid-1800s, the community experienced significant changes.
The advent of the railroad opened up opportunities for industrial growth and transportation in the region. The Pittsburgh and Connellsville Railroad, completed in 1857, had a major impact on the development of North Braddock. The railroad facilitated the transportation of goods and brought an influx of industrial workers to the area.
The first major industry to establish itself in North Braddock was the Edgar Thomson Steel Works, founded by Andrew Carnegie in 1872. Carnegie's steel mill was located adjacent to North Braddock, employing thousands of workers and transforming the town into a flourishing industrial community. The mill attracted workers from various ethnic backgrounds, contributing to the diverse fabric of North Braddock's population.
As the steel industry prospered, North Braddock grew rapidly. The population soared, and the borough became a hub of activity. Homes, schools, churches, and businesses sprung up to accommodate the growing community. By the early 20th century, North Braddock was a thriving and bustling town, closely tied to the fortunes of the steel industry.
However, like many industrial towns, North Braddock faced challenges with the decline of the steel industry in the later part of the 20th century. The closing of the Edgar Thomson Steel Works and other steel mills in the region resulted in massive job losses, economic decline, and population exodus. The borough struggled with the loss of industry and the associated social and economic issues.
In recent years, efforts have been made to revitalize North Braddock. Community leaders and organizations have focused on attracting new businesses, improving infrastructure, and promoting cultural and historical assets to uplift the borough. The North Braddock Cares initiative is an example of the community coming together to address issues such as blight, safety, and quality of life.
Today, North Braddock is a community that continues to evolve and adapt. It remains a place with a rich industrial heritage, and though it faced significant challenges, it is striving to reinvent itself in a changing economic landscape while honoring its past.
Attractions
North Braddock, PA is a small borough located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. While it may not have a plethora of attractions, there are a few notable places to visit:
The Waterfront
The Waterfront is a shopping and entertainment center located nearby in Homestead. It features various stores, restaurants, a movie theater, and waterfront views. It's a popular spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Kennywood Park
Kennywood is an amusement park located in nearby West Mifflin, just a short drive from North Braddock. It offers a mix of classic and modern rides, including roller coasters, water slides, and family-friendly attractions. Kennywood is known for its historic wooden roller coasters and has been providing fun for over 120 years.
Carnegie Museums of PittsburghNorth Braddock is conveniently close to Pittsburgh, which is home to several world-class museums. The Carnegie Museums consist of four main museums
the Carnegie Museum of Art, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, the Carnegie Science Center, and the Andy Warhol Museum. Each museum offers unique exhibits and experiences, covering various artistic, scientific, and historical interests.
Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area
Located in nearby Homestead, the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area offers a journey into the region's industrial past. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Carrie Blast Furnaces, where they can explore the history of steelmaking in the area and learn about the lives of workers. The heritage area also organizes events, programs, and exhibits related to industrial heritage and local culture.
Frick Park
Frick Park is a large city park located in Pittsburgh but is easily accessible from North Braddock. It offers numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, making it a great place to relax and enjoy nature. The park also features the Frick Environmental Center, which provides educational programs and exhibits on sustainability and the environment.
While North Braddock itself may not have many attractions, its proximity to Pittsburgh and neighboring towns provides plenty of opportunities for entertainment, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities.
Climate
North Braddock, Pennsylvania, experiences a humid continental climate. It is characterized by four distinct seasons, with significant variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year.
Summers in North Braddock are warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to high 20s Celsius). However, heatwaves can occur, pushing temperatures into the 90s Fahrenheit (30s Celsius) at times. The summers also receive a moderate amount of rainfall, with thunderstorms being common. July tends to be the warmest month of the year.
Fall in North Braddock is generally mild and pleasant. The average temperatures gradually drop, with highs ranging from the mid-60s to the low 70s Fahrenheit (high teens to low 20s Celsius). The region experiences some beautiful foliage during this season.
Winters in North Braddock are cold and snowy. The average temperatures range from the mid-20s to the low 30s Fahrenheit (-4 to 0 degrees Celsius). Cold air masses from Canada and the Great Lakes contribute to the cold conditions, with occasional snowstorms bringing significant snowfall to the area. January is usually the coldest month of the year, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing.
Spring in North Braddock brings a gradual warming, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (low teens to high teens Celsius) by May. It is a season characterized by a mix of rain, snow, and occasional mild days. April tends to be the wettest month.
Overall, North Braddock experiences a typical continental climate with distinct seasons and variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
North Braddock is a borough located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, United States. It is a suburban community with several distinct neighborhoods that offer their own unique characteristics. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in North Braddock:
St. Joseph
This neighborhood is home to the St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church and school. It is a residential area with many single-family homes and small businesses.
Kincaid
Kincaid is a neighborhood that features mainly residential properties, including beautiful historic houses. It is known for its tree-lined streets and a quieter, more suburban atmosphere.
Electric Avenue
This neighborhood is named after its main road, Electric Avenue. It is predominantly residential and has a mix of older, well-established homes and some newer constructions. Electric Avenue is also home to some small businesses and shops.
Verona Street
Verona Street is a primarily residential area with a diverse mix of housing styles, including detached houses, townhouses, and apartments. It is known for its close-knit community and friendly atmosphere.
General Braddock
Named after General Edward Braddock, this neighborhood is located towards the northern part of North Braddock. It is a mix of residential and commercial areas, with many small businesses and shops.
Bell Avenue
Bell Avenue is another neighborhood in North Braddock that offers a mix of residential properties and small businesses. It is known for its easy access to public transportation and various amenities.
These are just a few of the neighborhoods that make up North Braddock. Each neighborhood has its own unique charm and characteristics, contributing to the overall diversity and appeal of the borough.