The WJHHS is excited to announce that its first general meeting of 2025 will feature a program on the Bettis Airport. This airport, located in nearby West Mifflin, was established in 1924 as a mere airstrip but by World War II was operating under government contract and delivering training for the military. In the presentation, Pittsburgh historians Sue Morris and Brian Butko will relate many of the experiences of Pittsburgh’s earliest aviators and aviatrixes at this Allegheny County airport. Based on a book the two historians are co-writing, the January program is sure to be filled with numerous tidbits about the early days of this small airport so rich in local history.

April 14, 1865: At approximately 10:20 PM, the history of the United States was forever changed with the discharge of a gun. Abraham Lincoln, the 16th U.S. President, was shot by actor John Wilkes Booth at Ford's Theater. The actor then went on the run as Lincoln died at the Petersen House across the street. This is what everyone is taught in school. What they didn't learn in class is that four men from the Pittsburgh area played an important role on that fateful night. Join local historian Vincent T. Ciaramella in February as he explores this forgotten piece of history along with a surprise find that will really make you think, "just how much more hidden history is there in the 'burgh"?

There’s more to an election than simply a discussion of issues; it is also about winning the hearts of the voters themselves. While issues are certainly important, many historic Presidential campaigns went a step further to leave an impression on the voting public. From a catchy slogan to the unusual shower head nozzle, presidential hopefuls over the years found exciting and fun ways to remain memorable to their potential supporters. In March Steve Mihaly, historian and avid collector of Presidential artifacts, will deliver an informative program on this fascinating aspect of political history. As part of his program, Steve will display several authentic artifacts from previous Presidential elections.

Note: Election of two new WJHHS Board members will precede the program.