These topics air Monday February 17, 2014 at noon and 8pm on 90.5 WESA. To leave a question or comment before or after the show dial 412-256-8783. Join the conversation LIVE between 12pm & 1 pm weekdays at 412-246-2002. More Essential Pittsburgh segments can be heard here.
George Washington in Western PA
260 years ago, a 21-year old George Washington had two brushes with death in the Pittsburgh area that could have dramatically altered the course of American History. He was on a dangerous diplomatic mission in the Western Pennsylvania wilderness. We explore this little known chapter of Washington's life with retired Butler County Common Pleas Court Judge Martin J. O'Brien.
James Buchanan
While the White House is located on Pennsylvania Avenue, only one Pennsylvanian has ever occupied the executive office; Lancaster area native James Buchanan, the 15th President of the United States. Hear about our nation’s 15th president from Patrick Clarke, Director of President James Buchanan’s home Wheatland.
President Taft at Rodef Shalom
In May of 1909, a Shabbat, President William Howard Taft became the first American President to speak from the Bimah of a Jewish Congregation while in office. The Rodef Shalom Congregation, in Pittsburgh played host to the touring President. Archivist Martha Berg talks about Taft's visit to Pittsburgh and the importance of his speech.
Presidential Walking Tours in Washington, PA
Washington & Jefferson College has a unique way to celebrate and honor past American Presidents that have spoken, stayed, or visited Washington, PA. Professors Jennifer Harding and Thomas Mainwaring developed a walking presidential tour which offers a historical look at the connection between fifteen Presidents and the City of Washington.