George Westinghouse Memorial

George Westinghouse, Jr., born in Central Bridge, New York, in 1846, emerged as one of the most prolific inventors of the Industrial Revolution. With early exposure to his father's machinery shop, he displayed a knack for innovation, once designing a pipe-cutting device instead of simply performing the task.

At 19, he patented a rotary engine. A year later, a halted train ride in 1866 sparked his invention of the air brake, revolutionizing railway safety and efficiency. This breakthrough led to the rise of a vast railroad industry and paved the way for his other contributions.

Acquiring Nikola Tesla's patents, Westinghouse was instrumental in developing alternating current, ushering in the Age of Electricity. He also pioneered the use of natural gas for homes and industry, introduced electric locomotives, and powered marine vessels with his turbines.

Among his 361 patents were innovations like a citywide telephone switching system and the first radio station, KDKA. He played a key role in harnessing Niagara Falls for electricity and advanced atomic propulsion in naval ships. Westinghouse appliances—radios, toasters, washers—became household staples.

A forward-thinking employer, he instituted Saturday half-days (1871), pensions (1908), and paid vacations (1913). His personal life reflected simplicity and warmth. He cherished time at home with his wife, Marguerite, preferred meaningful conversation over gossip, and lived by the Golden Rule. Driven not by wealth but by the promise of helping humanity, George Westinghouse left a legacy that electrified the world—literally and figuratively.

The Westinghouse Memorial, located in Schenley Park, is not only a tribute to George Westinghouse, one of the world's foremost inventors and entrepreneurs, but it is likewise a tribute to the thousands of people who have collaborated with Westinghouse for so many years. Unfortunately, the George Westinghouse Museum is permanently closed, but visitors may find the Westinghouse collection at the Heinz History Center.