Long before Pittsburgh was known for its bridges and tunnels, the city's steep hillsides presented a formidable challenge. In the late 19th century, as industry boomed and the population swelled, the need for efficient transportation up Mount Washington (then called Coal Hill) became urgent.
The Monongahela Incline, opened in 1870, was the first passenger incline in the United States. Built by engineer John J. Endres, it used a clever system of counterbalanced cars — one going up as the other came down — powered by a stationary steam engine. At a grade of 35 degrees, it carried workers from the riverfront mills to the residential neighborhoods above. Today, it's the oldest continuously operating funicular in the country.
Just a few blocks away, the Duquesne Incline began operation in 1877, designed by Samuel Diescher. Its distinctive red cars and wooden trestle have become iconic Pittsburgh symbols. The incline's upper station offers a panoramic view of the Golden Triangle and the three rivers, a vista that has drawn tourists and locals alike for generations.
These inclines were more than engineering feats; they were social equalizers. Before their construction, only the wealthy could afford horses and carriages to navigate the hills. The inclines made it possible for working-class families to live in the fresh air of the hilltops and commute to jobs in the valley below. The fare? Just a nickel.
Today, both inclines are cherished landmarks, operated by the Port Authority of Allegheny County and maintained with historical care. The Duquesne Incline was saved from demolition in the 1960s by a dedicated group of citizens led by local historian Tom Dickson. For a fascinating look at their preservation story, check out this article from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Riding an incline today is like stepping into a time machine. The clatter of the cables, the gentle sway, and the unfolding skyline remind us that even in a city known for reinvention, some things are worth keeping.
