The Battle of Homestead

The Pump House and its adjacent water tower supplied and stored millions of gallons of water each day from the Monongahela River for the Carnegie Steel Company’s vast steel-making operation in Homestead.  Remnants of the original pumping mechanisms are visible in the building’s deep basement. It was the site of the 1892 “Battle of Homestead” current art and historical installations help to interpret that tumultuous event, as well as highlight the steel-making legacy of the region. Private and group tours are available by appointment via the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area.

The “Battle of Homestead,” was a lengthy and violent union strike and owner-approved lockout that pitted workers against hired guards and resulted in 10 deaths, hundreds of injuries including those among local residents, and deep, long-lasting animosity between labor and management. 

Visitor Information

The Pump House is located at 880 E. Waterfront Drive in Munhall, across from what is now the Waterfront retail and residential complex  It is closed in the winter months and parking may be full or partly restricted to accommodate programs and events hosted by Rivers of Steel and its partners. When there are no planned events, day parking is offered without a fee; overnight parking is prohibited.