A Look Back at Pittsburgh’s Hotel Schenley

Renowned architects Rutan and Russell have one of their largest projects right in Pittsburgh.

The History of Pittsburgh’s Hotel Schenley

Opened in 1898, the elegant Hotel Schenley welcomed guests — including several U.S. presidents and baseball teams visiting Forbes Field — until the 1950s. Actress, singer and socialite Lillian Russell (pictured) lived at the hotel for a time; her (fourth) wedding was held on the property in 1912. Today, it’s the William Pitt Union at the University of Pittsburgh.

Vintage portrait of actress and singer Lillian Russell, a famous guest of the historic Schenley Hotel in Pittsburgh.

Lillian Russell image from the George Grantham Bain Collection. Via Library of Congress.

Story by Sean Collier

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