PGH EcoSolutions Route - Homestead Pump House Tour

Dr. Charles McCollester treated our PGH Riders to an interesting and informative tour of the Homestead Pump House, which included the history of the steel industry in our region. Charlie spoke about the Mon Valley technological revolution, from the days of craftsmen devoted to"iron puddling"to the enormous increase in steel quality and production made possible by the invention of the Bessemer/Kelly Open Hearth furnace, and the resulting worker abuse and demoralization.

Today we are in the midst of another technological revolution, exemplified by the vertical WindStax Energy turbine on the Pump House site, funded by our Bronze Level Sponsors, EPIC Metals and WindStax Energy. EPIC Metals CEO, David Landis, joined us and talked about carbon footprint reduction at EPIC and his role in Sustainable Pittsburgh's CEOs for Sustainability.

The President of the Izaak Walton League, Mike Stout, and members of the Battle of Homestead Foundation joined us, as well, and contributed to our understanding of the Robber Baron versus Steelworker conflict, including ongoing developments.

Take a look at our photos!