The Spring Hill Civic League was founded in 1951 and formally incorporated on March 12 of that year, with its charter approved April 19, 1951. For over 75 years, the League has served as the voice and organizing force of our neighborhood.

1951

Founding

The Spring Hill Civic League is formally incorporated on March 12, 1951, with the charter approved April 19. Albert Schmittlein serves as the organization's first president.

Late 1950s – 1961

Growth Under Albert Boehm

Albert Boehm leads the League from the late 1950s through 1961. During this period the Northview Heights housing project is constructed, shaping the neighborhood's northern boundaries.

1964 – 1967

Charlie Lieberth Era

Charlie Lieberth presides over the League, maintaining community advocacy during a period of urban change across Pittsburgh's North Side.

1967 – 1974

Dormancy & Reactivation

The organization enters a dormancy period of approximately six years before being reactivated in 1974, reestablishing its community presence.

1974 – 1980

Ed Preskar Revitalizes the League

Ed Preskar revives the League in 1974, establishing the blockworkers program (1974), the neighborhood newsletter (1975), and obtaining 501(c)(3) non-profit status. The League purchases the Rockledge Street lot in 1975 to create a community parklet.

1980 – 1995

Ron Marak Expands Programs

Ron Marak, elected in November 1980, expands community programs including the Halloween Parade and the Blockwatch neighborhood safety initiative, deepening resident engagement.

1995 – 2006

Diane Schmitt Decade

Diane Schmitt leads the organization for a decade, securing use of the Homer Street firehouse's first floor for community programming — a significant expansion of the League's physical presence.

2006 – 2020

Continuity of Leadership

A succession of dedicated presidents — Donna Allison (2006–2008), Jackie Hoffman (2009), Joan Russell (2010–2012), Bob Sobocinski (2013), and Bobby Wilson (2018–2020) — maintain the League's mission through changing times.

2020 – Present

Benjamin Soltesz

Benjamin Soltesz is elected president in 2020, continuing the League's work as a voice for Spring Hill residents on development, quality of life, and community programs.

By the Numbers


1951
Year Founded
75+
Years of Community Service
1975
Rockledge Parklet Acquired
501(c)(3)
Non-Profit Status