Tom Ratchkauskas Photography: South Side - Shores of Steel

A two mile stretch along the south shore of the Monongahela River, once four distinct boroughs presented to John Ormsby by King George III for his service during the French and Indian War. Later becoming a magnet for immigrants seeking work in heavy industry, the area became a world famous center for glass production as well as steel, Pittsburgh's first physician helped design the area, evident in streets such as Sarah Street, Josephine Street and Carson Street named after relatives. The Victorian street, one of the longest in the country today, once brimming with blue collar workers, now brims with an unprecedented amount of bars, restaurants and retail space, Pittsburgh's own version of Bourbon Street. A prime example of Pittsburgh's ability to repurpose older structures once vital to its growth into new structures vital to its future growth, the four boroughs now form the South Side Flats and South Side Slopes. In the South Side Flats, over 80 bars and restaurants operate alongside new retail and recreational space. In the Slopes, one can get a feel for history on the steep hilltops some accessible by staircases that double as named streets, once traveled by the footsteps of immigrant workers. Easy access to downtown and universities make the South Side one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Pittsburgh just a decade or two after its steep decline. One can enjoy the old charm of the Victorian East Carson Street or the new South Side works, just off the Hot Metal Bridge, filled with new retail and office space such as R.E.I, one of the only Hofbrauhaus locations in the United States and the corporate headquarters of American Eagle. Once the site of an old steel mill, it has been repurposed to become some of the most desired real estate in the city, evident by the large number of condominium complexes popping up along the river. An extension of the Three Rivers Heritage Trail runs along the river providing unique views of the city while providing new found recreation for the people of Pittsburgh.