We are thrilled with 2023’s progress: the historic porch has been restored! Interior plans were approved…
SUCCESSES – Restoring the historic porch was a major accomplishment. Initially “hoped for” when RCHA was formed in 1975, we started by obtaining approval from PA Historical and Museum Commission for the plans in 2016 including roof replacement and porch restoration. A second grant in 2020* was awarded that covered expenses for the porch. After some delays and through COVID, a reliable construction company successfully bid the job late in 2022. The project was completed this May. Though Uhl Construction‘s business is commercial and industrial, an exception was made for Rachel Carson’s historic homestead.
- The porch and related projects in the Rachel Carson Homestead restoration, Phase III – 2020-GEDTF-142 projects, were funded in part by the Allegheny County, Gaming and Economic Development Tourist Fund (GEDTF).
Over a decade ago, worn siding was replaced with reclaimed wood, and original doors and windows were repaired or re-milled. The next public grant permitted replacement of the roof (also a GEDF grant administered by Allegheny County), added a ramp for better accessibility, and made other improvements.
AND NOW – Those were some big steps forward, and now we recently had a plumbing leak that caused some water damage! Instead of a step backward, we would turn this into an advantage, using the opportunity to now restore part of the interior first floor – with some help from friends.
The flow would be modified following a Historic Site Report – PHMC has approved changes that would restore and improve access to historic rooms. In any case, a ceiling needs to be repaired before we offer regular open hours again.
We will keep you apprised of plans and progress – and thank you for your support!
The Rachel Carson Homestead is registered as a National Historic Site and with the Pittsburgh History and Landmark Foundation, but does not receive federal funding. The Rachel Carson Homestead Association is responsible for restoration, maintenance, and general repairs. The Homestead is the locus of factual information about Rachel Carson’s early life and her “sense of wonder” – the inspiration for all her writings.