A secret marriage. Steamships racing across the Atlantic. An incredible gift of land. That's how the story of Schenley Park begins. Edward Bigelow, known as the "father of Pittsburgh Parks," had always hoped that Schenley Park would have a grand entrance. And that's what Schenley Plaza was designed to be. But it took a while for the area to become what it is today, the green heart of Oakland. And even though it might feel like the front lawn of the University of Pittsburgh, Schenley Plaza is actually a part of Schenley Park and managed by the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy under a long-term contract with the city.