Station Square - A History.

A grand stretch of buildings towers over groups of trains as they enter and leave the station next to one of the three rivers of Pittsburgh. These trains are carrying passengers, raw materials, and commercial products. This is a genuine booming economy, and the area known as Station Square is the heart and soul of this economic surplus. Of course, this was at the very beginning of its life. Nothing lasts forever though, and the history of Station Square is a rollercoaster ride of glory, economic failure, and ingenuity.

Station Square was first conceived in 1877, when construction began for a rail line to connect Youngstown with Pittsburgh. Twenty-two years later the railway was open for business, and trains began moving back and forth between the stops. During this time, Station Square was highly populated, and boasted a good amount of commerce and trade. And for many years, this was the case. In those times, train was a great form of travel, and the railroad system was great for moving products back and forth, so naturally, this massive terminal was greatly used. Though, the Golden Age of Station Square didn't last forever.

After the 1940's, strides were made in the air and motor travel industries, and these forms of travel became more and more popular. Thus, as a whole, the use of the railway systems was becoming scarce. This had its toll on Station Square as well, and by the 70's, it was looking more like a graveyard than a booming symbol of commerce. With over forty acres of land set aside for this area, it would be difficult to see such a beautiful piece of architecture rot. Therefore, in the mid seventies, the land was being recycled by the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation. Station Square was going to be put into more of a practical use, and a hotel was built in the area, as well as a dock. In essence, Station Square was going to be turned into an urban playground; a fun and relaxing travel spot for locals and tourists alike.

With the reformation taking many years, it looked like Station Square could become what it once was; a booming economic area. After a trade of ownership, developer Forest City Enterprises began more work on it in 2002. Thus, Station Square has seen many generations of passersby, and has been to the edge of ruin and back. Its long history tells many tales, yet even in its old age and shaky past, it is still as glorious as it was on the day of its inception.