Trip #656 Dagmar Avenue to Fallowfield Avenue, Beechview, Pittsburgh took place on October 24, 2021, and was published on November 3, 2021.
A fallow field is cultivated land that lies idle for a designated time. Regularly scheduled “downtime” is necessary for the soil to regain its nutrients and natural fertility. Like the field, we can also benefit from a period of lying in rest. As we slow the wheels of production, our minds can focus elsewhere or choose to wander. Our spirit reconnects to the ever-abundant cosmic energy source, healing our hearts and restoring life’s natural lushness to our tired, depleted bodies. After this fallow time, we emerge better able to care for ourselves and others around us. In all the decades of people rushing to and fro at this busy train stop, I wonder how many ever paused to reflect upon its meaning. Perhaps not many, but I don’t think I’m the only one.
Field Notes: I’m not sure if this is how the stairs looked in 1952. This design appears much more recent and was likely done when the light rail replaced the streetcar lines. Still, it’s a convenient way to access the train stop.
Love city steps? Get yourself the latest issue of Mis.Steps: Our Missed Connections with Pittsburgh’s City Steps! Each copy is unique and features 10 randomly selected “trading cards” of Pittsburgh’s 739 public stairways. Visit the Mis.Steps online store to see all issues and place your order.
Want to visit these stairs? You can locate them on the Pittsburgh City Steps Plan website!
Be a good neighbor! Have you visited these stairs and found them in poor condition or that illegal dumping (large items like tires, old furniture, and construction debris) and trash were abundant in the area? There are two things you can do to take action and make our city steps cleaner and safer for everyone! First, grab a photo if you can, and submit a report to Pittsburgh 311. All problems, both broken stairs, and railings, as well as trash and dumping, should be reported to the city. You can easily do this online or by calling.
