Celebrating National Squirrel Appreciation Day
While January 21st may seem like any other winter day, it’s actually a fun, lesser-known holiday: National Squirrel Appreciation Day! As a university that calls Squirrel Hill our home and hosts a plethora of these cute rodents on campus, we can’t help but celebrate. In celebration, student Abigail Kneuss compiled some of the reasons she loves Squirrel Hill. Whether you’re a foodie, a shopper, or a history buff, there’s something for you to enjoy in this great neighborhood.
The History
Squirrel Hill is rich with history. Although no one knows exactly how Squirrel Hill got its name, it is said that the Indigenous people that used its slopes as hunting grounds named it such due to the huge grey squirrel population that was notoriously bold. As the Pittsburgh Dispatch reported in the 1920s, “[they] were so tame and bold...they were even known to make hasty entrance through cabin windows and stealthily make way with nuts or grain that families had stored away for winter consumption or for next year's seed." The area served as a hunting ground until the 1760s when farms and vast country estates for the wealthy were built. It continued in this manner until the late 19th century when the electric trolley was introduced in Pittsburgh and working-class people were able to travel freely around the city and began to settle here. In 1920, a combination of improved transportation and a spike in immigration led to the thriving neighborhood business district that still exists today along Forbes and Murray Avenue.
The Food
Some of the best food in Pittsburgh can be found right here in Squirrel Hill. Pamela’s Diner serves a classic Yinzer breakfast while Pigeon Bagels serves delicious bagels made in shop. Pizza lovers can have their pick between Pittsburgh classics: Mineo’s Pizza House and Aiello’s Pizza. Those looking to try out a wide variety of dishes can find delicious classic Jewish dishes with a modern twist at Nu Jewish Bistro or mouthwatering Korean favorites at Green Pepper. And to top it all off, dreamy desserts are found everywhere from Waffallonia Belgian waffles to the macarons at Gaby et Jules.
The Community
Although Squirrel Hill is home to over 28,000 people, it retains the feel of a closely-knit and inclusive community. The multiple local shops and restaurants with friendly owners behind the counter, seasonal farmers market, and the local branch of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, make it easy to get to know someone in the neighborhood. It also serves as the hub for Pittsburgh’s Jewish community with multiple synagogues, day schools, eateries, and a community center for those who practice Judaism. Fred Rogers, host of Pittsburgh’s beloved Mister Roger’s Neighborhood, was a long-time resident of Squirrel Hill and likely took inspiration from the neighborhood for his show.
The Shopping
There are plenty of places to shop in Squirrel Hill with trades and items you can’t find anywhere else. You can stop in at Squirrel Hill Shoe Repair for some of Pittsburgh’s most trusted cobblers or go around the corner to Little’s Shoes; one of the city’s most iconic and longest-running shoe stores. Looking to get into music? Acoustic Music Works on Murray offers “guitars, banjos, mandolins, and good company.” Those with a sweet-tooth can find all gluten-free desserts imaginable at Gluuteny Bakery and fine chocolates at The Chocolate Moose. Tea lovers can find endless options at Dobra Tea or Blue Monkey Tea. Those looking for gifts can find charming clothing, jewelry and alpaca-fur lined items at Paititi inti. Squirrel Hill also boasts Jerry’s Records, named one of Rolling Stone's best record stores in the USA.
The Fun
There is never a lack of things to do in Squirrel Hill. You can catch a movie at the nearly 90-year-old movie theater, The Manor, or take a stroll in the gorgeous Mellon Park. A Squirrel Hill favorite is to spend the afternoon with friends on the steps of the Sixth Presbyterian Church or walking around the neighborhood looking at the historical homes. In the winter, Murray Avenue is transformed for the annual Lunar New Year Parade and in the summer, the streets are alive with local artists, food trucks, and live music at the Squirrel Hill Night Markets. While these traditions may be looking different during the time of COVID-19, they are sure to continue for years to come.
Make sure to say hello and happy Squirrel Day to any furry friends you see today. For more reasons to love living at our Shadyside campus check out, 3 Questions with Shadyside Campus.