Lost treasures, war artifacts, and pickles…yes pickles are just a few of the attractions the Heinz History Center and Fort Pitt Museum are offering during their free admissions weekend, celebrating National Pickle Day from Nov. 15-16.
Both the Heinz Center and the Fort Pitt Museum will open their doors to all visitors including adults, children, and seniors, courtesy of a grant from the Jack Buncher Foundation.
“I had a conversation with Bernita Buncher, and she said ‘I think more people ought to know what’s there at the Heinz History Center, how would you feel if we gave you a grant that would allow all Pittsburghers to come?’ Well I thought that was the best idea since pickles,” said History Center President Andy Masich.
He says the museum shows how the region's historical events influenced America and the world.
“Our history is a part of who we are if we are going to make good decision in the present and plans for the future we need to know where we came from, and that’s what the Heniz History Center is all about,” said Masich
The History Center's newest exhibitions include "Pittsburgh’s Lost Steamboat: Treasures of the Arabia" and "Slavery to Freedom."
The History Center couldn’t afford to forget some pickle festivities in honor of National Pickle Day, and will host a perfectly pickled party on Saturday, Nov. 15. Guest can view 160-year old, preserved pickles – still green in their jars.
Highlights of the party include a pickle tasting from the Pittsburgh Pickle Company and a pickle scavenger hunt throughout the History Center.
Masich says no one will leave National Pickle Day empty handed.
“Everyone who comes to the Buncher free days will receive a pickle pin, a little pin invented by H.J. Heinz in 1893,” said Masich.
But not to be out done by all the pickle fun the Fort Pitt Museum will offer visitors an interactive exploration as well.
“Of course Fort Pitt is where Pittsburgh began, its right down at Point State Park. It’s a wonderful museum focused on the French and Indian War 250 years ago,” said Masich.
