Ewart Building was first in Pittsburgh with electricity

One of the many qualities that make downtown Pittsburgh unique is its rich history. Nineteenth-century buildings sit nestled among sleek high rises.

One historic structure, the Ewart Building, is situated along Liberty Avenue in the Cultural District. Named after Samuel Ewart, it served as the headquarters for the family business, Samuel Ewart & Company Wholesale Grocer, from 1891 until the family sold it in 1969.

The building was the first in Pittsburgh to have electricity. After 20 years of vacancy, it was renovated and leased by Rugby Realty in 1998, and it is now home to the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership.

– Hollie Geitner, WordWrite Communications