Irwin in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
"The McIntyre House"
1840's - 1890's
Photographed by Bradley Owen, April 1, 2025
1. "The McIntyre House" Marker
Here stood one of the most famous early hotels in southwestern PA., "Mrs. Mack's". As many as 4,400 guests were accomodated here during the winter seasons, including prominent Pittsburgh and Gbg. citizens. Also the first stagecoach stop in the area and a main stop on the underground railroad before the Civil War.
Erected 1976 by Norwin Jaycees.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Railroads & Streetcars. In addition, it is included in the Network to Freedom series list.
Location. 40° 19.772′ N, 79° 43.559′ W. Marker is in Irwin, Pennsylvania, in Westmoreland County. It is on Old Trail Road west of Jacksonville Road, on the left when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 11050 Old Trail Road, Irwin PA 15642, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in the Laurel Highlands and in Greater Pittsburgh. It is also in the American Northeast, in the Mid-Atlantic, in Appalachia, and specifically in Northern Appalachia. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Viceroyalty of New France, the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Confederacy, and one of the original Thirteen Colonies.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: The Fullerton House (within shouting distance of this marker); The Marchand House (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); North Huntingdon Township Veterans Memorial (approx. Ό mile away); Brian Dale and David Kovalcin (approx. 0.3 miles away); Norwin High School Veterans Memorial
this page online
Regarding "The McIntyre House". The first Jacksonville stagecoach inn was located at what later became known as the McIntyre House. Hugh McIntyre, a prominent abolitionist, bought the house in 1854. Following his death, his wife, Jane Siegfried "Mother Mack" McIntyre, continued to operate the McIntyre House until 1894. Her obituary stated, "For half a century, this has been a favorite resort for driving parties for miles around and 'Mother Mack's' unequaled and neverchanging hospitality made her a universal favorite." The house was known as a stop on the Underground Railroad where escaped slaves were hidden before the Civil War. A doorway in the basement of the house led to a tunnel beneath what is now Old Trail Road; the opening has been sealed with cement blocks.
Photographed by Bradley Owen, April 1, 2025
2. "The McIntyre House" Marker
The historic home, seen at the back left, was originally a log home that can be found under the current siding.
Credits. This page was last revised on April 3, 2025. It was originally submitted on April 3, 2025, by Bradley Owen of Morgantown, West Virginia. This page has been viewed 539 times since then and 78 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on April 3, 2025, by Bradley Owen of Morgantown, West Virginia.
