Workers at the Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh's Strip District have successfully prepared and lifted a massive Heinz ketchup bottle into place on Thursday. The monumental 35-foot bottle, previously housed at Acrisure Stadium, now proudly stands at the Senator John Heinz History Center, becoming a significant attraction for visitors.

The awe-inspiring sight of the ketchup bottle being transported through the streets of Pittsburgh caused a brief disruption to traffic on Thursday morning. Accompanying the bottle was a sturdy steel pedestal, showcasing the massive structure's grandeur as it made its way down the southwest corner at 12th and Smallman Streets.

Andrew Masich, president and CEO of the History Center, expressed his excitement about the new addition, stating, "What better place for the Heinz Field red zone ketchup bottle than here at Heinz History Center?" The giant structure, standing at an impressive 57 feet in height, is expected to create a wonderful photo opportunity for visitors. The History Center has even organized a contest, encouraging individuals to post pictures with the bottle and tag the Center for a chance to win a Heinz swag bag and a "Friends & Family" membership.

Starting from December 22, visitors will officially have the opportunity to admire the colossal ketchup bottle at the History Center. The Center's president, Masich, believes that the bottle, along with The Heinz exhibit and the adjacent sports museum, plays a significant role in understanding Pittsburgh's heritage. The original goalposts from Three Rivers Stadium are proudly displayed alongside the ketchup bottle, symbolizing the connection between Pittsburgh's sporting legacy and the iconic condiment.

The installation process for the ketchup bottle was a meticulous endeavor. Having faced the elements at Heinz Field for 21 years, the fiberglass structure required extensive restoration. The History Center ensured the steel pedestal was strong enough to support the bottle's weight, which measures a whopping 7,000 pounds. To put its capacity into perspective, the bottle could hold approximately 13,000 gallons of Heinz ketchup, according to the History Center. When mounted, the bottle will tower over 55 feet tall.

Witnessing the historic moment, visitors and locals were filled with awe and excitement. Elliott Traeger, a first-time visitor from Chicago, shared his enthusiasm, remarking, "It's pretty cool to see the Heinz bottle go up. We've only driven through Pittsburgh, so watching this was a great moment." Megan Fisher and Rachel Mazzetti, who stumbled upon the spectacle during a coffee run, described it as a fantastic addition to the museum and a unique piece of history.

To accommodate the installation process, Smallman Street's eastbound lane remained closed until noon, ensuring the safety of workers and smooth execution of the project.

In April, the other Heinz ketchup bottle was returned to Acrisure Stadium, where it is suspended above the Heinz Gate, also known as Gate C.

The arrival of the giant Heinz ketchup bottle at the Heinz History Center marks a significant milestone in Pittsburgh's heritage. This iconic symbol of the city and its enduring relationship with the famous condiment will undoubtedly captivate visitors for years to come, solidifying Pittsburgh's identity as the home of Heinz.