About Us
As a tax exempt 501(c)3, the Washington County Cultural Trust (WCCT) is a non-profit entity comprised of interested citizens and business leaders throughout the region that actively engage in the preservation of historical buildings, properties and artifacts throughout Washington County, Pa.
The WCCT is the owner and operator of The Roberts House, located in Canonsburg, Pa., and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This structure is the last remaining building associated with Jefferson College, the first college west of the Allegheny Mountains. Dating back to 1794, the history of this building can be traced to the founder of Canonsburg, Colonel John Canon, and Reverend John McMillan, founder of
Jefferson College.
Project Update - Roberts house
Phase 2 is underway!
The Roberts House Preservation - Phase 2 (2022-Present)
Phase 2 of the Roberts House preservation is currently underway with the goal of completing the work started in phase 1 by the previous leadership of the WCCT. As first order of business, membership elected new officers and trustees. See below:
Andrew J. Andronas - President
Tom Cimino - Vice President
Sean Douglas - Secretary
Bryan Karner - Treasurer
What has been accomplished thus far?
- WCCT pursued and achieved the reinstatement of our 501(c)3.
- Borough of Canonsburg will be designating “John Canon’s original plan of lots,” which the Roberts house is within, a Historic & Cultural District.
- The WCCT is currently generating a scope of work to initiate the bidding process for architectural/design phase.
- Various grants submitted, fundraising efforts continue.
Previous efforts and leadership:
The Roberts House Preservation - Phase 1 (2005-2021)
Phase 1 of the Roberts House Preservation involved the acquisition of the house and doing the necessary repairs to keep the historic building from further deterioration so that a restoration of the house was possible. The Roberts House came up for sale and was purchased by Andy Tarnik. He approached several citizens about saving the building for the community. An exploratory group was initiated and eventually the WCCT was formed with the following leadership:
Ellen Sims - President
Joseph P. Salandra - Vice President
Joe Gowern - Secretary-Treasurer
The WCCT, with the help of the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation, was able to raise money and obtain a grant in order to start the preservation. The grant was wisely spent on a new roof and foundation repairs. Grants did not cover all of the costs of this phase, so Ellen Sims stepped in and covered this financial gap with her own funds to finish phase 1.
We thank the prior leadership for getting us to this point! Now, our team must strive to complete restoration and return this property to its former glory. WCCT meetings take place the first Wednesday of every month, 6:00pm @ the Canonsburg Borough Building.
Join us, as we "Enhance Our Communities by Preserving Our Past."
