Famous People from Pittsburgh | Carnegie, Warhol & Palmer

William “Billy” Strayhorn (1915–1967)

Born in Ohio but is more often associated with Pittsburgh, where he spent a larger part of his childhood. Was friendly throughout his life with Lena Horne, another transplanted Pittsburgher. For three decades was the composing and arranging partner of jazz great Duke Ellington. Met Ellington in 1939 outside the Stanley Theater, now the Benedum Center; where the bandleader hired him immediately and the two worked together until Strayhorn died in 1967. His compositions alone or with Ellington include "Lush Life," "Chelsea Bridge," "Johnny Come Lately," "A Flower Is a Lovesome Thing" and "Satin Doll." His most famous composition, "Take the 'A' Train," was inspired by the subway directions to Ellington's home for their first meeting.

Condition/Architectural Notes

Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) marker

Warner Brothers

Harry, Sam, Albert and Jack Warner hailed from Ohio but made a name for themselves by opening the first silent movie nickelodeon in downtown New Castle in 1907. Granddaugher Cass Warner today holds a film festival in New Castle and has started the Harry M. Warner Film Institute at Slippery Rock University.

The Vogues

Harmony-pop vocal group formed in 1960 by lead baritone Bill Burkette, baritone Don Miller, first tenor Hugh Geyer, and second tenor Chuck Blasko, who were all high school friends from Turtle Creek. Originally dubbed the Val-Aires, the foursome eventually reached the number four spot in the autumn of 1965 with "You're the One." Most memorable hit, the classic "Five O'Clock World," cracked the Top Five. Two more Top 40 entries, "Magic Town" and "The Land of Milk and Honey," followed in 1966. Resurfaced in 1968 with the Top Ten smash "Turn Around, Look at Me." The single, the Vogues' lone million-seller, anticipated the lighter, more sophisticated approach of subsequent hits like "My Special Angel," "Till," and "No, Not Much." Various Vogues lineups continue touring oldies circuits.

The Skyliners

Pittsburgh vocal group made it big with a magnificent heartache ballad in 1959, "Since I Don't Have You," among R&B's greatest hits. Led by vocalist Jimmy Beaumont, with Janet Vogel, Wally Lester, Joe VerScharen, and Jackie Taylor. Legend has it that Janet ad libbed the song's memorable ending in high C (after repeating thirteen "you's") as a joke during rehersals. The group liked it so much they made it a permanent part of their arrangement. More than a dozen labels rejected the song before it was released by a local Pittsburgh label, Calico Records. Their follow-up, "This I Swear," peaked at number 20 on the R&B charts.

In recent years, The Skyliners created not one, but two Christmas standards. The group's version of the Beaumont/Rock compositions "You're My Christmas Present" and "Another Lonely New Year's Eve" are not only heard across America each holiday season, but have been included on a number of holiday compact disc collections. The ensemble was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2002.

The Mellon Family

Andrew W. Mellon expertly invested money into multiple industrial and financial ventures including steel, aluminum, coal, utilities, railroads, banks, and more. Developed his father’s bank into Mellon National Bank which aided in the transformation of Pittsburgh into an industrial giant. Mellon Institute for Industrial Research was created by A.W. and brother Richard in 1909 in an effort to fund research in promotion of better business and scientific practices. A private man who kept his early philanthropy quiet, like canceling small debts for Christmas and purchasing food and clothing for people in Pittsburgh. Named Secretary of the Treasury in 1921 and served as Secretary for Presidents Harding, Coolidge, and Hoover, cutting the national debt with what was known as the "Mellon Plan" and authored the book Taxation: The People’s Business. Resigned in 1932 and accepted the position of U.S. Ambassador to Great Britain for one year. After retirement, began his largest philanthropic quest, the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC. Collected works while Secretary but solidified his plans with the A.W. Mellon Educational and Charitable Trust in 1930. Following the announcement of the Gallery, personal collection neared 350 pieces from which 121 paintings and twenty-one sculptures were added to the Gallery collection. Also established a trust to fund the Gallery, donating $10 million, as well as giving an estimated $21 million in art and $15 million for the construction of the Gallery building.The grand opening occurred in 1941 after his death. The legacy of A.W. Mellon remains with the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation philanthropic trust formed in 1969 through the merger of the Avalon Foundation (est. 1940 by Ailsa Mellon Bruce) and the Old Dominion Foundation (est. 1941 by Paul Mellon). Prior to the merger, the Avalon Foundation distributed funds to hospitals and health agencies, educational institutions, and cultural programs including the Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic. The Old Dominion Fund concentrated on the humanities and liberal education. The merged foundation, with assets of $3.4 billion (1998), continues to support the areas of health, education and the humanities and has added programs in conservation, public affairs and population studies.

The Lettermen

Founding member Tony Butala began singing professionally as a boy in Sharon and by the age of eight appeared on Pittsburgh's KDKA Radio. Moved to Hollywood to become a member of the famous Mitchell Boys Choir, appearing in motion pictures, television and radio and concert tours. In the mid-fifties, while still in high school in Hollywood, Butala formed The Fourmost, a vocal group of three ex-Mitchell Boy Choir friends and a female classmate, Concetta Ingolia. After moderate local success, Ingolia exited the group to be cast in a new TV series, "Hawaiian Eye," and chose the stage name Connie Stevens. By 1960, The Lettermen—now Butala, Jim Pike and Bob Engemann—were signed to Warner Brothers Records and released their first single: "Their Hearts Were Full of Spring."

In 1961, Capitol Records signed them to what turned out to be an over twenty-five year contract. The Lettermen first hit the music charts in 1961 with "The Way You Look Tonight." Following that first hit with another chart topper, "When I Fall In Love." Made "Theme From A Summer Place," "Smile," "Our Winter Love," "Come Back Silly Girl" and "Graduation Day." Late 1967 made perhaps their most loved and requested hit: the medley of "Goin' Out Of My Head / Can't Take My Eyes Off You." In 1967, Engemann left the group and was replaced by Jim's younger brother, Gary Pike. Hits continued with "Up, Up And Away," "Hurt So Bad," "Shangri-La," "Put Your Head On My Shoulder" and "Love." In 1973, when Jim left the group, the youngest Pike brother Donny took over and hits like: "Cherish / Precious and Few," "World Without Love," "If You Feel The Way I Do," "Feelings," "What I Did For Love," and Donny's own "Thank You Girl."

Throughout the 70s, 80s and 90s, The Lettermen continued to release albums and travel the world, performing hundreds of concerts each year. The current Lettermen consist of Tony Butala (the group's only original member), Donovan Scott Tea (an accomplished singer and songwriter who joined the group in 1984) and Darren Dowler (a young actor, singer, impressionist who came aboard in 1995). The year 2000 marked the group's 40th Anniversary. Butala created the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in Sharon, dedicated to honor the greatest vocal groups in the world.

The Heinz Family

Howard Heinz, son of founder H.J. Heinz, bequeathed his residual estate to the Howard Heinz Endowment for philanthropic purposes. Today thanks to the largesse of both Howard and Vira Heinz Endowments, a variety of arts and culture, social service, healthcare, environmental, economic development and educational services thrive in Pittsburgh and around the world.

Henry Heinz II was an active community leader with intense interest in the arts worked toward citywide revival and the creation of a downtown Pittsburgh cultural district. In 1971, together with funding from the Heinz family, oversaw the creation of Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts, the home of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Founded the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust in 1984. Spearheaded the creation of the Heinz Gallery, located in the Carnegie Museum of Art, in 1988, and the development of the Benedum Center, a two-year restoration of Pittsburgh's historic Stanley Theater.

His son, the late Senator John Heinz, as chairman of the Heinz Charitable and Family Trust and trustee of the Howard and Vira Heinz Endowment, continued the Heinz family tradition of combining entrepreneurial skill with community activism.

Stephen Foster

Famous for writing songs like "Oh! Susannah" (1848), "Camptown Races" (1850), "Old Folks at Home" (1851), "My Old Kentucky Home" (1853) and "Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair" (1854). Not understanding his musical talent, his pioneer family provided little formal musical education. His knowledge of African Americans was drawn from minstrel shows for which many of his songs were written. Feeling that prejudice against these 'Ethiopian songs' existed, he was at first unwilling to risk his reputation by having his name appear on them. Had little aptitude for business, and his income was never commensurate with the popularity of his songs. Excessive drinking and extreme poverty ruined his last years. He died in Bellevue Hospital, New York City. Buried in Allegheny Cemetery, Section 21, Lot 30.

Stanley Turrentine

Born to a musical family, father Thomas played tenor saxophone, mother played piano, brother Tommy the trumpet and brother Marvin drums. Stanley played tenor sax, mixing jazz with blues, rock, rhythm and blues and pop. In the 50's, played with Lowell Fulson, Earl Bostic, and Max Roach's bands. In the 1960s, worked with organist Jimmy Smith and made many soul jazz recordings both with Smith and as a leader. Had his biggest hit "Sugar" in 1970. Then turned to jazz fusion, but returned to soul jazz in the 80's and 90's. Career began in Pittsburgh and came back to his roots for his final journey. Buried in Allegheny Cemetery, Section 26, Lot 722.

Stan Musial

One of the game's great hitters, St. Louis Cardinal "Stan the Man" won the National League batting championship seven times (1943, 1946, 1948, 1950–52, 1957) and the league's Most Valuable Player award three times (1943, 1946, 1948). In 1963 retired with a lifetime batting average of .331. Hit 475 home runs and for many years held the National League record for base hits (3,630). Elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1969.

Shirley Jones

Shirley grew up in Smithton, PA, where grandfather William B. Jones founded the Jones Brewery in 1907 that's still in operation. She was a gifted child with natural singing ability, studied under Ralph Lewando, one of Pittsburgh's top vocal coaches.

After graduating from South Huntingdon High School, she was spotted by a scout photographer for The 1952 Miss Pittsburgh Pageant and went on to compete for the title of Miss Pennsylvania. The prize was a two year scholarship to the drama school at the Pittsburgh Playhouse. She planned to go on to college but instead went to New York City in the summer of 1953. There she was discovered by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein who cast her as Laurie in the 1955 movie version of their hit stage musical Oklahoma!

Later Shirley played the same role on Broadway and established a career in both theater and the movies, including the musicals The Music Man (1962) and Carousel (1956). The actress won a 1960 Academy Award for her portrayal of a prostitute in the film Elmer Gantry. From 1970-74, starred on the TV show The Partridge Family as Shirley Partridge, the mother of a rock act who also sang in the band and co-starred her real-life stepson, early '70s heartthrob David Cassidy. She was married to actors Jack Cassidy from 1956-74, and Marty Ingles.

Sharon Stone

A cool blonde who combined brainy sex appeal and old-fashioned Hollywood glamour, was one of Hollywood's biggest stars during the 1990s. Born and raised in Meadville, she won a college scholarship at 15 before graduating from high school. Attended Edinboro University near Erie and studied creative writing and fine arts. Dropped out and worked as a $500 a day model at the Eileen Ford Agency. Turned to acting in the late 70's and began in B-movies like King Solomon's Mines (1985) and Police Academy 4 (1987). Made 17 movies before becoming a superstar in Basic Instinct (1992). In 1995 she was nominated for an Oscar for her role in Martin Scorsese's crime film Casino. Filmed Diabolique in Pittsburgh in 1996.

Rusted Root

The six-piece band formed in Pittsburgh in 1990 with Michael Glabicki (vocals, guitar), Liz Berlin (vocals, percussion), Patrick Norman (bass, vocals), and Jim Donovan (drums, percussion) as the initial lineup, though John Buynak (percussion, winds) and Jim DiSpirito (percussion) joined later that year. Their breakthrough album, When I Woke, appeared in 1994 and became successful in alternative circles during 1995-1996, especially with singles such as "Send Me On My Way" and "Ecstasy." In mid-1996, released the Evil Ways EP, a compilation of live tracks with the band's contributions to the movies Twister and Home for the Holidays. Their second album, Remember, reached the Top 40 in its first week of release.

Roy Eldridge

Jazz trumpeter. Inducted into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame in 1985.

Rob Marshall

Received equity card through Pittsburgh CLO in his early years in the theater in Pittsburgh. Studied at Point Park College and graduated from Carnegie Mellon University in 1982. Director of Academy Award winning film for Best Picture, Chicago (2002). Nominated for Broadway's Tony Award six times: as Best Choreographer, in 1993, for Kiss of the Spider Woman—The Musical; in 1994, for Damn Yankees! and She Loves Me; in 1998 for Cabaret; and in 1999 for Little Me; and as Best Director (Musical), with collaborator Sam Mendes, for Cabaret.

Ranked #93 in Premiere's 2003 annual Power 100 List. First appearance on the list and one of very few to appear on it after making only one film.

Renee Fleming

Born in Indiana, PA, and grew up in Rochester, New York. Both parents were voice teachers, her musical training came naturally. Studied at the Juilliard School and holds degrees from the State University of New York at Potsdam and the Eastman School of Music. Early recognition includes the 1988 Metropolitan Opera National Auditions, the Richard Tucker Award, the George London Prize, the Grand Prix at the International Singing Competition in Belgium, and a Fulbright Scholarship to Germany. Has a devoted international following whether on the operatic stage, in concert or recital, on television, radio or on disc. Won a 1999 Grammy Award for her recording, "The Beautiful Voice."

Ray Brown

Jazz bassist. Collaborated with Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, and Duke Ellington. Along with Milt Jackson on vibes, drummer Kenny Clarke and John Lewis on piano, discovered a cool, comfortable chemistry, the signature of what became the Modern Jazz Quartet in 1952. Also enjoyed an 18-year association with the Oscar Peterson Trio. Is credited with discovering Canadian jazz singer Diana Krall in the early 1990s while seeing her perform in Nanaimmo, British Columbia, Canada. Inducted into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame in 1997.

Rachel Carson

After studying marine biology and zoology, worked for the U.S. Bureau of Fisheries as a writer and bureaucrat, while at the same time writing popular science articles for magazines. In 1941 published Under the Sea-Wind, the first in a series of books about the ocean. Turned her attention to the "indiscriminate" use of pesticides, and 1962 book Silent Spring set off a national controversy in the U.S. and gave new life to the conservationist movement. Childhood home northeast of Pittsburgh in Springdale is open to the public as museum to her life and accomplishments.

Perry Como

Born in Cannonsburg as Pierino Como, one of a family of 13 children. Worked as a barber and married his high school sweetheart, Roselle Beline. Landed a spot in the Freddie Carlone Orchestra and in 1937, joined the Ted Weems orchestra where he was featured on the band's Beat the Band radio program. With the start of World War II, found himself back in Canonsburg in a barbershop cutting hair. CBS radio rescued him, offering a weekly show. RCA signed him to a recording contract that garnered him 42 Top 10 hits in the next 14 years. Hits included "Dig You Later (A Hubba-Hubba-Hubba"), "I'm Always Chasing Rainbows," "They Say It's Wonderful," "Surrender" and "Some Enchanted Evening." The 1945 rendition of "Till the End of Time" was his most memorable hit from this era.

Other hits were on the lighter side of romance and included "Hot Diggity" and "Papa Loves Mambo." Made his television debut in 1948 with NBC's The Chesterfield Supper Club. In 1950, had his own show on CBS, The Perry Como Show, which ran for five years and for another eight years on NBC, the show that featured his theme song "Sing Along With Me." In 1956 and '57 he won Emmy Awards for most outstanding television personality. Retired from his show in 1963, opting to work only occasionally on TV specials, including traditional Christmas shows. Returned to live performances in the 1970s, playing Las Vegas. The 1970s also gave rise to his million-record seller "It's Impossible." Received the Kennedy Center Honors award for outstanding achievement in the performing arts.

Mike Ditka

All-American at Pitt (1960); NFL Rookie of Year (1961); 5-time Pro Bowl tight end for Chicago Bears; returned to Chicago as head coach in 1982 and won Super Bowl XX in 1986; left Bears in 1992 and worked as a broadcaster at NBC for four years; coached the New Orleans Saints from 1997-99; currently an analyst on ESPN.

Michael Keaton

Born Michael Douglas in Coraopolis where his family still lives. Attended Montour High School and studied speech at Kent State University in Ohio. Started as a stagehand on Pittsburgh public TV show, Mister Rogers Neighborhood (1968). Began acting but couldn't keep his name because there was already a Michael Douglas in movies and a Mike Douglas on TV. Had seen an article on Diane Keaton and chose Keaton although has never legally changed his name. The manic morgue comedy Night Shift (1982), his movie debut, was typical of his comedy style. Became a star as the frenetic title ghoul in Tim Burton's dark comedy Beetlejuice (1988). Burton cast him as the title role in Batman (1989). Comic fan anger ensued over his selection, forcing the studio to release an advance trailer both to show that Keaton could do the role well and that the movie would not be a campy parody like the TV show Batman. Played the Caped Crusader in the 1992 sequel, Batman Returns. Has appeared in a variety of films ranging from dramas and romantic comedies to thriller and action films as well as providing voice overs in several Pixar animated hits. Critically praised for his lead performance in Birdman (2014) earning him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy, the Critics' Choice Award for Best Actor and nominations for a Screen Actors Guild Award, British Academy Film Award and Academy Award for Best Actor.

Mary Lou Williams

Played piano professionally from a very early age. Known throughout Pittsburgh as "the little piano girl," was often heard at private parties including those of the Mellons and the Olivers, well before she was ten years old. Was exposed to some of the greats, taken by her family to the theater to hear and see musicians at work.

In 1925, joined a group led by John Williams, whom she married. In 1930 became a regular member of Andy Kirk's band, of which John too was a member. The fame of Kirk's band in the 1930s was due largely to her distinctive arrangements, compositions, and solo performances on piano. Later provided noteworthy swing-band scores for Benny Goodman, Earl Hines, Tommy Dorsey, and others. A swinging, percussive player, she was a major force in the development of Kansas City swing and the bebop revolution. Achieved and maintained unwavering respect from her male colleagues and treatment as a musical equal.

Mary Cassatt

An Impressionist painter best known for mother and child compositions and also for color prints, based on Japanese woodblock techniques and that combined drypoint, etching, and aquatint. Was recognized by the turn of the century as one of the preeminent painters both the U.S. and France, which became her permanent home. Most of her life was spent in France, where she was greatly influenced by great French contemporaries, particularly Manet and Degas, whose friendship and esteem she enjoyed.

Historical Marker commemorating Mary Cassatt located at Allegheny and Ridge Avenues, North Side, Pittsburgh.

Martha Graham

Born in Pittsburgh, family moved to California in 1908 where she saw a performance of Ruth Saint-Denis that inspired her to become a dancer. Would later study at Saint-Denis' dance school. In 1926, took a teaching job at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, and gave her first recital at the 48th Street Theatre in New York City. A year later, opened her own school, the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance. In 1936, established the school of modern dance at Bennington College. Was invited to perform at the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, but declined.

Gave her first performance at the White House for the Roosevelts in 1937 and would dance for seven other presidents. Most notable and probably longest lasting work was Appalachian Spring, choreographed in 1944. Didn't stop dancing until 1970, when she was 76 years old. Received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1976, and in 1984 was awarded the Legion of Honor by the French government. Continued writing ballets until her death in 1991.

Lou Christie

His shrieking falsetto was among the most distinctive voices in all of pop music. Was also one of the first solo performers of the rock era to compose his own material. Born Luigee Alfredo Giovanni Sacco, attended Moon Township High School, studied music and vocal technique. Between 1959 and 1962, in collaboration with a variety of Pittsburgh-area bands, cut a series of records for small local labels. Met Twyla Herbert, a classically trained musician, and became songwriting partners. In 1962 penned "The Gypsy Cried," recorded on two-track in Christie's garage. The single became a local phenomenon, and was released nationally, peaking at number 24 on the pop charts in 1963.

After relocating to New York and working as a backup vocalist, wrote and recorded "Two Faces Have I," landing in the Top Ten. Shortly after its release, began a two-year stint in the Army and in 1966 returned and picked up right where he left off with his biggest hit yet, "Lightnin' Strikes." His next smash, 1966's "Rhapsody in the Rain," was notorious for being among the more sexually explicit efforts of the period. Scored one last Top Ten hit in 1969 with "I'm Gonna Make You Mine." Drug problems plagued Christie during the early 1970s, and after getting clean at a London rehab clinic, he dropped out of music, working variously as a ranch hand, offshore oil driller and carnival barker. By the 1980s, he was appearing on oldies tours, and in 1997 issued Pledging My Love, his first new material in over a quarter-century.

Joseph Wambaugh

Former policeman who transformed the sub-genre of the police novel into serious literature of a hard-boiled nature. His first four books and his work on the Police Story television series in the 1970s set standards of realism, dialogue, and character development for subsequent writers.

Johnny Unitas

One of the greatest professional football players in history. Held nearly every passing mark in the league record book. Responsible for "the greatest football game ever played." At the 1958 championship match-up vs. the New York Giants, with 90 seconds on the clock, Johnny U. completed four passes to bring the Colts to the 20-yard line. The Colts tied the game on a field goal, after which Unitas set up an 80-yard drive for the winning touchdown.

Joe Namath

Candid, outspoken, and controversial pro football player, nicknamed "Broadway Joe" for his fast and free lifestyle. Although hampered by knee and shoulder injuries, led the New York Jets to a victory in the 1969 Superbowl game. Retired from football in 1977, spending his last season with the Los Angeles Rams. In 1985 he was inducted into the Professional Football Hall of Fame.

Joe Montana

Regarded as the greatest quarterback in NFL history and known especially for his collaboration with such receivers as San Francisco 49er teammates Dwight Clark and Jerry Rice. Records included five consecutive games with over 300 yards passing (1982) and 22 consecutive completed passes (1987). Led San Francisco to four NFL championships and was the most valuable player in the Super Bowls of 1982, 1985, and 1990. In 1989 and 1990, was the NFL's most valuable player.

Jimmy Stewart

Started in the movies in the 1930s, making light comedies as a wide-eyed innocent. Appeared in 20 films before earning an Oscar nomination for his defining role in Mr. Smith Goes To Washington, (1939) and the next year won an Oscar for The Philadelphia Story. The word "Philadelphia" on his Oscar was misspelled and, ironically, was kept in the window of his father's hardware store located on Philadelphia Street in Indiana, PA. His career was interrupted by World War II, in which he served as a combat pilot. Returned from the war with a distinguished record and soon starred in It's A Wonderful Life, (1946), earning another Oscar nomination. Appeared in dozens of westerns, including Destry Rides Again, (1939) and Winchester '73 (1950), and made notable appearances in Alfred Hitchcock's Rope (1948), Rear Window (1954) and Vertigo (1958). The Jimmy Stewart Museum was dedicated in his hometown of Indiana in 1995. When he died in 1997, over 3,000 people (mostly Hollywood celebrities) went to his funeral to pay respects.

Honus Wagner

Entered baseball's Major Leagues in 1897 with Louisville and played infield and outfield positions. When Pittsburgh replaced Louisville in the National League, anchored himself at shortstop with the Pirates. Called the "Flying Dutchman" by his fans and came to be regarded as one of the outstanding players of baseball. Led the National League in batting eight times, had a lifetime batting average of .329, made 3,430 base hits, and scored close to 1,800 runs. Wagner, agile though massively built, excelled at fielding; also led the National League five times in stolen bases. In 1917, retired from baseball, but returned to the Pirates as coach (1933–52). In 1936 he was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

Henry Mancini

Raised in West Aliquippa, studied flute and piccolo, took lessons from Max Adkins, a Pittsburgh concertmaster and jazz fan. Fellow students were the great Billy Strayhorn and Jerry Fielding. Adkins introduced him to Benny Goodman as a potential arranger for Goodman's band. After graduating from high school, attended Carnegie Tech (now Carnegie Mellon University) and Juilliard in New York City. Goodman offered him a job and after serving in WWII he joined the rearranged Miller band. In 1952 was given a two-week assignment at Universal to work on an Abbott and Costello film and ended up staying for six years.

Success with The Glenn Miller Story allowed him to score other films and helped change the style of film background music by injecting jazz into the traditional orchestral arrangements of the 1950s. Was nominated for 18 Oscars and won four; in addition, won 20 Grammys and 2 Emmys, made over 50 albums and had 500 works published. Collaborated extensively with Blake Edwards - firstly on TV's Peter Gunn, then on Breakfast at Tiffany's which won him two Oscars; won more Oscars for the titles song for Days Of Wine and Roses and the score for Victor/Victoria. Best remembered for the title theme from the The Pink Panther.

Henry and Elsie Hillman

Henry is the son of Pittsburgh steel mogul John Hartwell Hillman Jr., who built Pittsburgh Coke & Chemical. Joined the company after earning geology degree from Princeton, took charge in 1959. Changed focus to light industry, real estate, venture capital. Along with wife, Elsie, set a standard of civic involvement in Pittsburgh. Active in the arts, with an emphasis on the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.

Supports a wide variety of local organizations with personal money and through the Hillman Foundation, the Hillman Co. and the Henry L. Hillman Foundation. The Hillman Library at the University of Pittsburgh was a result of Hillman largesse, as are the Hillman Cancer Center at Shadyside Hospital and the Hillman Pediatric Transplantation Institute at Children's Hospital. Often cited for his quotes, particularly, "A whale is harpooned only when it spouts."

Elsie Hillman is known for her political influence, helped elect John Heinz to the House of Representatives and U.S. Senate, Richard Thornburgh and Tom Ridge as Pennsylvania governors and George H.W. Bush as president. She has been involved in a number of charitable and civic organizations, including WQED Pittsburgh.

Gertrude Stein

Travelled the the U.S. and Europe as a child, and studied under philosopher William James at Radcliffe College. Moved to France in 1904 and found herself in the center of a crowd of artists that included Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway and Thornton Wilder. Although writing plays, prose and poetry for years, she was unknown as a writer until the 1933 publication of The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas, named after her companion of many years. Was known for using repetition in her writing including "There's no there there"; her often-quoted line "Rose is a rose is a rose is a rose" is from Sacred Emily (1913). Her home on Beech Street in the Allegheny West section of Pittsburgh still stands, with a plaque honoring her many accomplishments.

Historical Marker commemorating Gertrude Stein located at 850 Beech Ave., North Side, Pittsburgh.

George Romero

Film director born in 1940 and raised New York City. Attended Carnegie Mellon University and upon graduation, began shooting mostly short films and commercials. Formed Image Ten Productions in the late 1960s with friends, all of whom contributed $10,000 apiece to produce what became one of the most celebrated American horror films of all time, Night of the Living Dead (1968). Shot in black and white on a limited budget of just over $100,000 it became a cult classic and earned back multitudes more than what it cost.

Next films, including There's Always Vanilla (1971), The Crazies (1973), Hungry Wives (1973) (where he met future wife Christine Forrest) and Martin (1977) were shot in or around Pittsburgh. In 1978, returned to the zombie genre with Dawn of the Dead (1978). Shooting in the Monroeville Mall during late-night hours, film depicted the sorrowful tale of four people who escape a zombie outbreak. Shot on just $1.5 million, the film earned over $40 million worldwide. Also marked first-time collaboration with make-up and effects artist Tom Savini.

Success led to bigger budgets and better talent for the filmmaker: Knightriders starring Ed Harris (1981), Creepshow (1982), and Day of the Dead (1985), The Dark Half (1993) and Bruiser (2000). His latest in the Dead Series, Land of the Dead, debuted in Pittsburgh in the summer of 2005.

George Benson

Singer who has achieved success both as a jazz musician and a pop vocalist. Organized his own rock band at the age of 17. During the 1960's, performed in a jazz quartet led by organist Jack McDuff. Played with his own quartet beginning in 1965. Also recorded with such jazz stars as Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Freddie Hubbard, and Lee Morgan during that time. During the 1970's, began recording vocals of romantic songs. First hit was "This Masquerade," a selection from his popular album Breezin' (1976). Other vocal hits include "The Greatest Love of All" (1977), "On Broadway" (1977) and "20/20" (1984). Maintained jazz roots in the 1980s and 1990s by recording with the bands of Count Basie and jazz guitarist Earl Klugh.

Gene Kelly

Born the third of five children, "The Five Kellys"—Jay, Jim, Gene, Louise, and Fred—performed amateur vaudeville shows around Pittsburgh. Family founded The Gene Kelly Studio of the Dance in 1932, with one studio in Pittsburgh and one in Johnstown. Taught at the studio, as well as choreographed and directed shows at the Pittsburgh Playhouse and University of Pittsburgh. Graduated from Peabody High School and the University of Pittsburgh.

Went to Broadway in 1938 and in 1940, starred in Pal Joey, a hit that ran for 270 performances. Hollywood came calling. Debuted in For Me and My Gal with Judy Garland. Other films followed including Cover Girl (1944) and Anchors Away (1945), earning an Academy Award nomination. Joined the navy during WWII and returned in 1946, making many films including The Pirate, Take Me Out to the Ballgame and On The Town. In 1951 made An American In Paris, winner of the Academy Award for Best Picture. Followed with the spoof of early movie-making, Singin' in the Rain that went on to become one of America's most popular musicals.

After Singin' in the Rain, moved to Europe to take advantage of a new income tax law. Upon returning to the US, appeared in two musicals, Brigadoon and It's Always Fair Weather. In 1957, his fifteen year marriage to wife Betsy ended. Also that year made his last film for MGM, Les Girls. In 1960, married Jeannie Coyne, his longtime dance assistant and former pupil from Pittsburgh. Together they had a son, Timothy, and daughter Bridget. In 1973 Jeannie died from cancer. During the 1970s and 1980s, made retrospective films including That's Entertainment! and That's Entertainment II.

In 1982, received the Kennedy Center Honors, and in 1985, a lifetime achievement award from the American Film Institute. Married writer Patricia Ward in 1990 and died in 1996. His legacy continues at Pittsburgh CLO where the annual Kelly Awards honor local high school talent, strongly supported by Patricia Ward Kelly.

Fred Rogers

Host of the popular long-running public television children's show Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. Rogers' mild manner, cardigan sweaters and soft speaking voice made him widely beloved. Used gentle charm and mannerisms to communicate with his audience of children. Topics centered on matters of concern to children, from everyday fears related to going to sleep, getting immunizations and disappointment about not getting one's way to losing a loved one to death and physical handicaps. He used simple songs and, on nearly every show, segments from the Neighborhood of Make-Believe to make his point. The show debuted on WQED-TV in Pittsburgh in 1967 and was picked up by PBS the next year, becoming a staple of public TV stations around the United States. First-run shows were produced from 1968 to 1975, at which time production was suspended until 1979. New programs were taped through 2001 for broadcast alongside the original 460 episodes, the most notable coming in 1991 with Rogers' shows focusing on calming children's fears during the Persian Gulf War. Rogers ended production of the show in 2001, but reruns of the show continued to be aired on many PBS stations. Following his death in 2003, his legacy continues with the Fred M. Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children's Media at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe PA.

Frank Gorshin

Born in Pittsburgh in 1933, the son of hardworking Croatian Catholics, Frances and Frank, Sr. While working as a teenager at the Sheridan Square Theatre, memorized mannerisms of the screen stars and created an impressionist act. That act blossomed into a career that had him star in movies, television, nightclubs and theater stages. Best remembered for his role as The Riddler on the original 1960s TV series, Batman. His impressions of stars like Burt Lancaster, Kirk Douglas and Marlon Brando were some of his best and he performed them throughout his career. Died in 2005 of lung cancer, as he was a heavy smoker, and is buried in Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Hazelwood, PA.

Erroll Garner

Musician and composer best known for "Misty." Was a professional pianist at age seven over KDKA radio. After high school, was featured with the Slam Stewart Trio. Later he formed his own trio, and appeared at the Paris Jazz Festival in 1948. Was the first jazz artist presented by impresario Sol Hurok, and was among the first to give concerts in the outdoor circuits. Tours included a number of European visits, concerts, television appearances and live venues including the Seattle World's Fair. Other popular song and instrumental compositions include "Dreamy," "Solitaire," "Blues Garni," "Trio," "Turquoise," "Other Voices," "No More Shadows," "Passing Through," "Dreamstreet," Theme from A New Kind of Love, "Paris Mist," "Play, Play, Play" and "Erroll's Bounce."

Dennis Miller

In the 1970s, he won an award from Playboy Magazine for submitting the joke of the year. Then became a household name thanks to his years on TV's Saturday Night Live (1985-91) where he was a writer and the host of the "Weekend Update" news segment. After a short-lived TV series in 1992 and small roles in feature films, had great success on cable television (HBO) with the Emmy Award-winning Dennis Miller Live (1994-2002), a stand-up routine that included rants about social and political issues. In 2000 he began as a commentator for NFL Monday Night Football, but left in 2002. Ended up with a gig on the Fox News talk show Hannity & Colmes, followed by his own show on CNBC in 2004.

David O. Selznick

Hollywood producer and magnate who was the driving force behind Gone With the Wind (1939). Son of the silent movie director Lewis J. Selznick, studied at Columbia University until his father lost his fortune in the 1920s. Worked at MGM, Paramount and then RKO. Was back at MGM in 1933 after marrying Irene Mayer, the daughter of Louis B. Mayer. In 1936 set up his own production company, Selznick International. Three directors and fifteen scriptwriters later, Gone with the Wind was released. The studio's other credits include Rebecca (1940) and Spellbound (1945). Also married to actress Jennifer Jones.

David McCullough

Author of some of the most popular and well-respected biographies including Pulitzer Prize-winning Truman (1992), John Adams (2001) and 1776 (2005). In addition, narrated several TV shows including Ken Burns' The Civil War and is host of The American Experience, both on PBS. Continues to maintain ties to Pittsburgh, often appearing at functions throughout the region.

Christina Aguilera

Throughout her youth in Pittsburgh, Aguilera sang "The Star-Spangled Banner" before Pittsburgh Penguins hockey, Pittsburgh Steelers football and Pittsburgh Pirates baseball games. Her first major role in entertainment came in 1993 when she joined the Disney Channel's variety show The New Mickey Mouse Club. with co-stars Justin Timberlake, JC Chasez, Rhona Bennett, Ryan Gosling, Britney Spears, and Keri Russell. According to the documentary Driven, Aguilera's Mickey Mouse Club co-stars called her "the Diva". One of her most notable performances was of Whitney Houston's "I Have Nothing". When the show was canceled 1994, Aguilera began recording demos in an attempt to get signed to a record label. She was signed to RCA Records after recording "Reflection" for the film Mulan. She came to prominence following her debut album Christina Aguilera in 1999, which was a critical and commercial success.

Charles “Teenie” Harris

A photographer for the Pittsburgh Courier, one of the pre-eminent black news weeklies in America. Traveled the alleys, workplaces, nightclubs, and ballparks of Pittsburgh, shooting backstage with Dizzy Gillespie and Lena Horne, in the dugout with Josh Gibson and Satchel Paige, and on the streets of the Hill District and Homewood-Brushton.

Documented black Pittsburgh and created a historically and sociologically accurate record of its African-American history from 1931 through 1975. Nicknamed "One Shot" by Mayor David L. Lawrence because of his habit of snapping only one shot of him when other photographers would shoot many. Died at the house where he had lived for most of his life at 89, two weeks shy of his 90th birthday. Both the Westmoreland Museum of American Art in Greensburg and the Carnegie Museum of Art have held exhibitions of his photographs, with the Carnegie creating a special archive for the work.

Bruce Weber

Studied in Princeton and at the New School for Social Research in New York. Has an international reputation as a photographer and has exhibited countless times since 1973. Also has directed, produced and written for the screen, including his direction of the 1988 Chet Baker bio pic, Let's Get Lost. Photos he shot of models the Carlson brothers for the 2002 exhibition Naked at Pittsburgh's Wood Street Galleries caused quite a stir.

Bobby Vinton

Born in Canonsburg, PA, this American singer, celebrity and actor reached #1 on the Billboard Top 100 and hosted his own self-titled TV show in the late 1970s. As a teen idol, he became known as "The Polish Prince", as his music paid tribute to his Polish heritage.

Billy Eckstine (1914–1993)

His smooth baritone and distinctive vibrato broke down barriers throughout the 1940s, first as leader of the original bop big-band, then as the first romantic black male in popular music. Began singing at the age of seven and entered many amateur talent shows. Was hired by fellow Pittsburgher Earl "Fatha" Hines to join his Grand Terrace Orchestra in 1939 and by 1943, gained a trio of stellar bandmates—Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Parker, and Sarah Vaughan. After forming his own big band that year, he hired all three and gradually recruited still more modernist figures and future stars including Dexter Gordon, Miles Davis, Fats Navarro, and another Pittsburgher, Art Blakey. The Billy Eckstine Orchestra was the first bop big-band, and its leader reflected bop innovations by stretching vocal harmonics into normal ballads.

Hit the charts often during the mid-'40s, with Top Ten entries including "A Cottage for Sale" and "Prisoner of Love." Made the transition to string-filled balladry with ease and recorded more than a dozen hits during the late '40s, including "My Foolish Heart" and "I Apologize." Returned to jazz roots, making several albums during the early '60s (one with his son Ed who was the president of Mercury). Appeared on Motown for a few standards albums during the mid-'60s. After recording very sparingly during the '70s, made his last recording, Billy Eckstine Sings with Benny Carter, in 1986. He died of a heart attack in 1993.

August Wilson

Became involved in theatre in the late 1960s when he co-founded the Black Horizons Theater, a community theatre located in Pittsburgh. First attracted wide critical attention with his Broadway debut, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (1984). His plays center on the struggles and identity of African Americans. They draw heavily on his own experience growing up in the Hill District of Pittsburgh. Jitney (1982), Fences (1987; Pulitzer Prize), Joe Turner's Come and Gone (1988), The Piano Lesson (1990; Pulitzer Prize), Two Trains Running (1992), Seven Guitars (1995), King Hedley II (2001), and Gem of the Ocean (2003) form a series of dramas that focuses on the major issues confronting African Americans during different decades of the 20th century. Continues a close alliance with the Pittsburgh Public Theater.

Historical Marker commemorating August Wilson located at 1727 Bedford Ave., Pittsburgh.

Art Blakey

Drummer and leader of the Jazz Messengers, a hard bop ensemble of the 1940's. In the 60s, 70s, and 80s, when artists on the cutting edge were attempting to transform the music, Blakey continued to play more or less the same as he had since the 40s, when his cohorts included the likes of Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, and Fats Navarro. Inducted into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame in 1982.

Arnold Palmer

Turning professional after winning the 1954 U.S. amateur championship, won the 1955 Canadian Open. Won the Masters tournament in 1958, 1960, 1962, and 1964, becoming the first four-time winner; the U.S. Open in 1960; and the British Open in 1961 and 1962. A great fan favorite, followed enthusiastically by "Arnie's Army," had a noted long-term rivalry with Jack Nicklaus. In 1967 he became the first golf professional to have won over $1 million. In May 2005, hosted the U.S. Senior Open Golf Championship as his home course, Laurel Valley Golf Club.

Annie Dillard

Born Annie Doak in 1945, spent her childhood in the affluent Pittsburgh neighborhood of Point Breeze in a family of eccentrics: father once quit his job to float down the Mississippi, mother would accost strangers on the street claiming Annie was their illegitimate daughter. Studied English, theology and creative writing at Hollins College in Roanoke, Va. and married her writing teacher, R.H.W. Dillard (10 years her senior) while just a sophomore. In 1971 a near-fatal bout of pneumonia prompted her to spend four years living in a cabin in the Virginia wilderness. The result of this self-imposed isolation was the critically acclaimed neo-naturalist masterpiece Pilgrim at Tinker Creek, which won the 1975 Pulitzer Prize for Literature (non-fiction). Married Gary Clevidence and moved to Cape Cod in 1980 while teaching at Wesleyan University. Published numerous essays and collections during this time, including Teaching a Stone to Talk, The Writing Life and the memoir An American Childhood about growing up in Pittsburgh. Married her third husband, writer Robert Richardson, Jr., in 1989. Published first novel, We The Living, in 1992 and has spent the last fifteen years teaching and writing poetry, essays and literary criticism. Has been hailed as “One of the most distinctive voices in American letters today.”

Andy Warhol

The son of Ruthenian immigrants, grew up in the ethnic North Side neighborhood of Pittsburgh, attending Holy Ghost Byzantian Church. Studied art as a youth at the Carnegie Museum of Art and later at the Carnegie Institute of Technology (now Carnegie Mellon University). Worked as an advertising designer before becoming the "Father of Pop Art" with his silk-screened pictures of Campbell's Soup cans and distorted images of Marilyn Monroe.

Started making films in 1963. After a near-fatal shooting by an unstable fan, Warhol retired from direct involvement in filmmaking, and under former assistant Paul Morrissey, the Warhol films became increasingly commercial. Warhol spent the 1970s and 1980s as a major pop culture figure, constantly attending parties and providing patronage to younger artists. The Andy Warhol Museum, located near the neighborhood where Andy grew up, is one of Pittsburgh's most popular.

Andrew Carnegie

Son of a weaver, came to the U.S. in 1848 and settled in Allegheny, PA. At thirteen, Carnegie went to work as a bobbin boy in a cotton mill. Moved rapidly through a succession of jobs with Western Union and the Pennsylvania Railroad. In 1865, resigned to establish his own business enterprises and organized the Carnegie Steel Company, which launched the steel industry in Pittsburgh. At age sixty-five, sold the company to J. P. Morgan for $480 million and devoted the rest of his life to his philanthropic activities and writing. Was perhaps the first person of wealth to state publicly that the rich have a moral obligation to give away their fortunes.

In 1889 wrote The Gospel of Wealth, asserting that all personal wealth beyond that required to supply the needs of one's family should be regarded as a trust fund to be administered for the benefit of the community. Set about disposing of his fortune through innumerable personal gifts and through the establishment of various trusts. In his thirties, gave his first large gifts to his native town. Later created seven philanthropic and educational organizations in the United States, including Carnegie Corporation of New York. Established network of free public libraries to make available to everyone a means of self-education.

Spent over $56 million to build 2,509 libraries throughout the English-speaking world. Other major programs included adult education and education in the fine arts. Established the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh and founded the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchesta in 1895. During his lifetime, Carnegie gave away over $350 million.

Historical Marker commemorating Andrew Carnegie located at Carnegie Library, 4400 Forbes Ave., Oakland. Please find out more and meet the "Father of Modern Philanthropy" through the Carnegie Corporation of New York's interactive storytelling website.

Jeff Goldblum

Studied acting and piano and started on the New York stage. Was noticed by Robert Altman, who cast him in California Split (1974) and Nashville (1975). In 1983, had a memorable role in the comedy The Big Chill, and was the star of the Mel Brooks-produced remake of The Fly (1986). Has appeared in several comedies and small-budget dramas, but is best known for his appearances in the 1990s blockbuster sci-fi thrillers Jurassic Park (1993), Independence Day (1996) and Steven Spielberg's Jurassic Park: The Lost World (1997). Appeared in the 2004 production of Pittsburgh CLO's Music Man.

Famous Pittsburghers