Homestead Cemetery History Day

Join us for a family friendly afternoon as we learn about past influential members of our community! Enjoy an interesting walking tour around the grounds, catch a fascinating presentation in our newly renovated Chapel, grab a bite to eat at a food truck, or chat with members of the Battle of Homestead Foundation about our local history!

All are welcome - no entrance fee is required, but donations are always appreciated.

Walking tour information: 

1. Learn about the history of the Soldiers Circle and peek into the lives of several Civil War era soldiers who rest there. Hosted by local historian and Board member, Ellis Michaels.
2. Baseball history is alive and well at the Homestead Cemetery! Come walk the grounds and hear stories about America's favorite pastime! Meet the men and women buried here that made it all happen, and build your knowledge about the early days and lives of baseball legends, including the owners and players of the Homestead Grays Negro League baseball team, the Pittsburgh Pirates, and others! Hosted by local historian, published author, and Josh Gibson Foundation affiliate, Vincent T. Ciaramella.
3. Take an intimate look into the life and death of the 1892 "Battle of Homestead" Steel Strike victim, John E. Morris, as told by his twice great-niece, Shannon Forester.
4. "A History of Notable People of Color at Homestead Cemetery" will feature an an historical who’s who in the religious, cultural, political, and social scene of the African American community in Homestead. Hosted by award-winning neighborhood historian and Interpretive Specialist, JaQuay Edward Carter, creator of the popular Facebook group “Historic Homestead: Steel Capital of the World.”

Presentation information:

1. Join Tammy Hepps,  local and renowned historian, as she speaks about the demolition of lower Homestead in 1941. What was lost when an entire neighborhood was wiped off the map? View rarely seen film footage of the Ward!
2. Are you interested in learning more about your family history, but aren't sure where to start? Join the founders of Finding Deep Roots, Lisa Richardson-Bray and Shawna Ferguson, as they share their tips and tricks! If you're interested in beginning your own genealogical journey, please visit them at findingdeeproots.com.

Parking information:

The cemetery will be temporarily closed to traffic for safety reasons. 

General parking will be available at the Anne Ashley UMC (334 E 22nd Ave, Homestead, PA 15120), along 22nd Avenue, and St. John the Baptist Cemetery (Main Street and Kent Way, Munhall, PA 15120. If you park in St. John's, please do not use the middle road as it's very difficult to turn around safely.

Handicapped parking will be available throughout the entirety of the Patriot Physical Therapy parking lot. We kindly ask that general parking not use these spaces to allow ease of access for those who truly need it. We thank everyone for their cooperation!