Established in 1891, the People's Bath House ushered in the progressive era of public baths to Pittsburgh.  By 1920 there were dozens throughout the city.  Today there are four. 

We're working to preserve their story.

 

At the height of the progressive hygiene movement, dozens of public bath houses were scattered throughout Pittsburgh's many neighborhoods.  Today, only four remain (one of which is the last functioning bath house in Pennsylvania).  Preservation Pittsburgh is working to collect their story, protect what remains, and promote Pittsburgh's rich history of public bathing.

Goals

Collect written & oral histories related to the bath houses.

Landmark each remaining bath house on the City of Pittsburgh's Register of Historic Places and pursue a thematic listing on the National Register of Historic Places.

Promote public bathing history in Pittsburgh through publications, community engagement, walking tours, and collaboration with public and private stakeholders.

Oliver Bath House

The bath house had its beginnings on March 9, 1903 when a letter from Henry W. Oliver was presented to the Select Council of the City of Pittsburgh calling for the creation of a bath house.  To achieve this, Henry Oliver promised to provide a gift of $80,000 and deeded land provided "... the bath shall be free for the use of the people forever."

When construction began on the bath house in 1914 the Oliver Iron & Steel Company sat across 10th Street and the bath would go on to serve its workers and other workers of the South Side.  The bath house today remains the only continuously functioning bathhouse in Pittsburgh and in Pennsylvania.

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FAQ

 

Why Focus on Pittsburgh's Public Bath Houses?
We believe Pittsburgh's public bath houses and their history provide a unique lens to access our city's industrial past.  They connect us back to stories of hygiene, philanthropy, recreation, industry, architecture, and most importantly of all, our own neighborhoods.

What's the Project Timeline?
The project began in earnest with the research and landmark designation of Pittsburgh's, and Pennsylvania's, last functioning public bath - the Oliver Bath House in 2016-17.  Focusing on one bath house a year, we're anticipating the project culminating with a thematic National Register of Historic Places listing in 2021.

What's the Ultimate Project Goal?
The main goal is to elevate our understanding and appreciation for the history of public bathing in Pittsburgh.  We'll achieve this through research, publications, landmarking, and community engagement activities.

How Can I help?
Have a good story or photos to share about the baths?  Contact us at: info@preservationpgh.org
Also, please consider donating to help further the initiative!