Allegheny Observatory

"Popular Mechanics" Magazine April 1914

Location:
159 Riverview Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15214

Description:

The Allegheny Observatory, an esteemed American astronomical research institution, operates under the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Pittsburgh. This facility, a significant landmark, holds listings on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as being designated as a Pennsylvania state and Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation historic landmark.

Originally, the observatory's structure underwent a replacement, as depicted in the photograph above. Designed in the Classic Revival style by Thorsten E. Billquist, construction commenced in 1900, with the cornerstone laid, and culminated in its completion in 1912. Positioned four miles north of downtown Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, within Riverview Park, the building stands as a striking example of tan brick and white terra cotta architecture. Its Classical forms and ornamentation signify the convergence of art and science.

Comprising a library, lecture hall, classrooms, laboratories, offices, and three hemispherical domed telescope enclosures, the L-shaped building caters to various functions. Two domes are designated for research purposes, while the third serves educational and public use. At its core lies a small rotunda, featuring an opalescent glass window portraying Urania, the Greek muse of astronomy, crafted by artist Mary Elizabeth Tillinghast.

Within the observatory's basement rests a crypt, serving as the final resting place for two distinguished astronomers and former directors, James Edward Keeler and John Brashear. Additionally, the crypt houses the remains of Brashear's wife, Phoebe, and Keeler's wife, Cora Matthews Keeler, and son, Henry Bowman Keeler.