Point State Park - From military stronghold to Pittsburgh's downtown gem

Point State Park stands as the crowned jewel of downtown Pittsburgh. It is a lush, 36-acre greenspace nestled at the historic confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers, where the mighty Ohio River is born.Point State Park is a focal point for community gatherings, festivals and celebrations. It provides sweeping views of the city’s skyline and serves as a tranquil urban escape.The Point has become the place you bring your out of town parents to. The place you see on TV during all home games for the Pirates and Steelers. The place you see from atop of the iconic Duquesne Incline. But it hasn’t always been that way. Before it was Point State Park, it was known as the Forks of the Ohio River and served as a critical military strong hold for the French, British, Native American and American militaries. Fort Prince George, Fort Duquesene and Fort Pitt were all – at one time or another – located where the state park stands.Overtime the Point developed into a thriving industrial zone, a place dedicated to supplying resources for the growing United States of America. But by the 1930s, the area had deteriorated into a commercial slum. City and state officials stepped up and completely changed the property. More than just a park, the Point is a testament to Pittsburgh’s ability to reinvent itself while honoring its roots and is a powerful symbol of Pittsburgh’s resilience, history and natural beauty.As the gateway to the city and the heart of its downtown, Point State Park doesn’t just represent Pittsburgh—it is Pittsburgh.On this episode, I speak with Jack Lachendro. Jack is the Environmental Education Specialist at Point State Park. Be sure to support our 2025 sponsors:Keystone Trails AssociationPurple Lizard MapsPennsylvania Parks and Forests FoundationSisters' SunflowersSupport the showVisit our website to learn more about the podcast, to purchase merch and to find out about our incredible sponsors. Follow us on Instagram and Meta to stay connected. Hosting, production and editing: Christian AlexandersenMusic: Jon SauerGraphics: Matt Davis