A walk along the streets of North Side’s Manchester neighborhood will take you back to the early 20th century with red-brick, Victorian-style homes featuring ornate trim and wooden porches. This architecture makes up Pittsburgh’s largest district in the National Register of Historic Places. In 1962, the Pittsburgh History & Landmark Foundation was organized here to save houses from being demolished and restore them for low-income and marginalized families.
Manchester highlighted on the Pittsburgh neighborhood map. (City of Pittsburgh)
One example from the 1930s is Anderson Manor on Liverpool Street. It was once the home of Colonel James Anderson, who opened up his private book collection to the community, and legend says, lent books to Andrew Carnegie during his formative years. The home was used for hospice for many years, but in 2016, the title was transferred to the Manchester Community Association to create a community center. Not to freak you out, but the space is supposedly haunted.
Leo. a public house on Allegheny Avenue. (Francesca Dabecco / City Cast Pittsburgh)
“Community, Service, Humanity.” That’s the mantra of Manchester’s only place for a bite and bev: Leo. a Public House — a cozy hangout for creative drinks and new twists on classic pub fare. Tip: Get the garlic snack mix!
Shop Local
On Juniata Street, you’ll find a colorful rooster mural perched above a 10,000 square-foot urban farm with a greenhouse and chicken coop. It’s a labor of love for longtime resident Lisa Freeman, who recently broke ground on a small grocery for the neighborhood. Check back early next year to support the shop.
Manchester row houses. (Hey Pittsburgh reader Julie Kaigler)
Go, See, Do
Explore the neighborhood’s history and charm at Showcase Manchester, a home and garden tour, this Sunday, Aug. 6 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will also be local art and food trucks. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.
