ABout Us

Who We Are

Nestled in the heart of Pittsburgh's North Side lies a hidden gem, the Mexican War Streets. Here, a dedicated group of individuals has taken up the mantle of preserving the historic character of this beautiful neighborhood while fostering community engagement and support. We are the Mexican War Streets Society (MWSS), a non-profit organization founded in 1969 by community-minded individuals who share a passion for preservation and a commitment to our neighborhood.

At the core of MWSS is our board, composed of executive officers and chairs. The executive officers, provide the leadership needed to steer our organization toward its goals. Our chairs oversee key aspects of our mission, such as Preservation, Greenspace, Programs, and Membership. Each year, during our annual holiday party in December, we elect board members from within our community, ensuring that those who best understand the neighborhood's unique character guide its future.

What We Do

MWSS's mission is twofold: to preserve the historic character of the Mexican War Streets and to promote community involvement. Our neighborhood is a federally- and partially city-designated historic district, a testament to its rich heritage and architectural significance. Stretching from Brighton Road to Federal Street (east to west) and North Avenue to Jefferson Street (south to north), the Mexican War Streets neighborhood is a living testament to Pittsburgh's history.

We take pride in our tradition of preserving the residential integrity of our streets and buildings. But more than that, we believe in fostering a sense of community. We hold four general membership meetings and special events throughout the year, such as the Mexican War Streets House & Garden Tour and The Mexican War Streets Yard Sale, serve as platforms for engagement, education, and celebration.

In the words of one resident, "We may live in Victorian houses, but we don’t live Victorian lifestyles." The Mexican War Streets are not frozen in time; they are a vibrant, evolving part of Pittsburgh's cultural tapestry.

WHO WE REPRESENT

MWSS proudly represents the interests of those who call the Mexican War Streets home. As part of the greater Central Northside community, our work extends beyond preserving physical structures; we aim to maintain the spirit and vitality of our neighborhood. By advocating for our residents and working to preserve our historic district, we contribute to the larger fabric of Pittsburgh's history.

So, what do people love most about the Mexican War Streets? It varies—from the stunning Victorian houses to the neighborhood's rich history and, perhaps most importantly, the warm and welcoming community. At MWSS, we are dedicated to nurturing this unique blend of history, architecture, and community spirit that defines the Mexican War Streets.

Neighborhood History

The Central Northside of Pittsburgh has a rich history dating back to its early days as a significant hunting ground for Native Americans, lying below a colossal sandstone ridge formed south of a great glacier. The development of this area, first documented in settlements related to James Robinson, the first settler of Northside, started in earnest in 1783 when the Pennsylvania General Assembly designated this wilderness north of Pittsburgh as a Reserve Tract. By the 1820s, the town of Allegheny, as it was known, had a burgeoning population, and the various plots of land and out lots were developed, bought, and rearranged by different pioneers, including Robinson and his family. Different areas within this tract like Mechanic’s Retreat, were designated for specific purposes, and the street grids and outlots experienced constant development and rearrangement over the years.

By the 1880s, Allegheny City’s population had soared to over 75,000 and the city experienced substantial infrastructural developments, including the installation of sewer and water services. The region continued to grow, and by the 1890s, the population had surged by 30%, surpassing 100,000. The housing within the area, especially in the Mexican War Streets, reflected the affluence of the burgeoning middle class during this time, with structures showcasing a plethora of Victorian architectural styles and constructed with locally sourced materials. This architectural consistency and quality serve as enduring symbols of Pittsburgh’s emergence as a significant industrial center, and the durability of these structures, if maintained, is a testament to the craftsmanship and quality of the era.

Join MWSS to engage in preservation efforts, community outreach, and social events.

MEET OUR BOARD

  • Danny Haas

    PRESIDENT

  • Fiona Kelman

    VICE PRESIDENT

  • COLLEEN BOYLE

    TREASURER

  • Cindy Salopak

    SECRETARY

  • Gary Lilly

    PRESERVATION CHAIR

  • Don Kozy

    MEMBERSHIP CHAIR

  • Garry Moorer

    GREENSPACE CHAIR

  • Leslie Vincen

    HOUSE TOUR CHAIR

  • Dan Wintermantel

    BRANDING CHAIR

  • BRITTNEY GRAY

    AT LARGE MEMBER

  • MICHAEL KOESTER

    AT LARGE MEMBER

  • HEATHER KNIESS

    AT LARGE MEMBER

The executive officers include the President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary, with chair positions for Preservation, Greenspace, Program, and Membership. Board members are elected annually at our December holiday party, and any MWSS member living within the neighborhood boundaries can apply to serve on the board.