Pennsylvania’s Civil War Exhibit Continues at Heinz History Center (CP’s Wed. 8/28/13)

1) Freedom isn’t cheap, so it’s always a good time to examine its costs. You can do so at the Pennsylvania’s Civil War exhibit at the Senator John Heinz History Center. A fascinating exhibit that chronicles Pennsylvania’s role in the Civil War including the Battle of Gettysburg and Pittsburgh’s contribution as the “Arsenal of the Union” from hearth to battlefront. View over 150 artifacts including a smooth bore Rodman Cannon reproduction that’s over 20 feet long and weighs 18,000 pounds; a tintype camera and portable printing press on loan from the Smithsonian Institution; tools, weapons and uniforms (some made by Pittsburgh factories); 19th century board games, musical instruments;  letters, formal documents and more. Look for the signatures of each soldier inscribed into an “Old Iron City” camp fiddle retrieved by members of Pennsylvania’s 193rd regiment. Runs through Jan. 4, 2014.  Open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 1212 Smallman St., Strip District.

2) Looking for the perfect mid-week perk? Make a point to stop at Carnegie Coffee Company. Located in the former Carnegie Post Office, the newly opened coffee-house specializes in the European coffee experience. This is also the only coffee-house in the area serving llly coffee, which prides itself in educating growers on sustainability and ethical farm practices. Pair an espresso with locally made pastries and sandwiches, and you’ll have the boost you need to get through the rest of the week. 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. 132 E. Main St., Carnegie.

3) Catch a flick and a band for free tonight courtesy of Dollar Band and Pittsburgh Citiparks at Schenley Park”s Flagstaff Hill. The Avengers (PG-13), a team of superhumans is assembled to save the Earth from the hands of the evil Loki and his forces.  Starring in The Avengers are Robert Downey, Jr., Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson,Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, and Cobie Smuthers.  Dusk. Daniels and McClain will be supplying the live music an hour before dusk, starting between 7 – 8 p.m. Across from Phipps Conservatory.

4) Butterflies are free to fly and one of God’s most beautiful creatures. At Phipps Conservatory you can experience them live in the Butterfly Forest exhibit. Watch gorgeous Monarchs and Zebra Longwings butterflies emerge from their chrysalises to flutter their little wings in an aerobatic dance among cheerful, bug-friendly flowers and plants. 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. One Schenley Park, Oakland.

Share on Social Media