Two years after the end of the Civil War, a large greenspace area bounded by North Avenue, Brighton Road, Ridge Avenue, East and West Ohio Streets and Cedar Avenue, became Allegheny City’s first park. It was initially named Allegheny Commons, but when the area was annexed by the City of Pittsburgh in 1907, it was renamed West Park and some residents still call it that today.

The park, at one time, contained a boathouse, a number of monuments, and a small, picturesque pond (Lake Elizabeth). In addition, it was home to dozens of great varieties of stately trees.

Over a long period of years, the park fell into decay. The waters of Lake Elizabeth were drained, and during the years of World War II, the resulting “bowl” became a storage area for tons of scrap aluminum needed for the war effort. (It earned the nickname of “Lake Aluminum” at that time.)

In the 1960s, a major redevelopment effort began, and it has brought much of the park’s beauty back to life. The pond is again filled and features handsome footbridges. And the park has become a venue for a host of cultural and recreational activities such as the National Aviary, The Children’s Museum, and the annual Children’s Festival. But perhaps best of all, it still serves as a wonderful location for a striking group of trees for all to study and enjoy.