Rogers to Share Stories About Oakmont's History

Oakmont resident Gary Rogers will be leading people through a history walk along Allegheny River Boulevard on Saturday.

Rogers, who has been studying the history of Oakmont for 15 years, has been preparing for the walk by gathering facts and stories that aren't well-known throughout the community.

"I don't want to tell people what they already know," he said.

The walk, which is a program through the , will begin at 9 a.m. at the front steps of the library. Walkers will head over to the Hulton Bridge, to the clock tower on Maryland Avenue and back to the library.

Rogers said he has several stories planned, such as how the site of the library was chosen and the importance of the railroad to the town.

"There are things that happened 100 years ago that still affect the town," he said. "I have a lot of stories."

But those who attend can feel free to chime in and tell stories of their own, Rogers said.

"I like to get the group involved," he said. "I enjoy two-way conversations. Talking to people is an excellent way to get information. People are so interested in their town's history, and they are great sources. I've gotten some great leads from people."

Rogers said the walk should last about 45 minutes to an hour.

"It'll be a lot of fun," he said.