09/06/2026
Did you know that Market Square was once home to one of Downtown Pittsburgh’s busiest public markets?
From 1915 until 1960, Diamond Market bustled with more than 40 independent businesses selling meat, fish, baked goods, coffee, produce, and more. Beyond groceries, the massive market hosted poultry shows, boxing matches, and even had a roller-skating rink on the second floor.
By the 1950s, the aging building stood in stark contrast to the modern skyscrapers rising around it. Diamond Market closed for good on Dec. 31, 1960, and was demolished the following year.
Read more about the rise and fall of Diamond Market on our blog: https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/blog/western-pennsylvania-history-the-rise-and-fall-of-pittsburghs-diamond-market/
