Union Presbyterian Church: A landmark cross through the years

The iconic cross atop Union Presbyterian Church on Route 60 at Church Hill Road is visible for miles around and has been for many years.

At night, this illuminated landmark can be seen from many a far-away place, because the church is located on one of the highest hills in the city.

A view of Union Presbyterian Church on Church Hill Road in Robinson Township during the evening of April 7, 2025.

But the cross that you see today is not the original; it is the third.

The first cross of white material, probably installed in the late 19th or early 20th century, was severely damaged in a windstorm in the 1950s. A decade later, the second, made of red plastic, was brutally shattered by lightning, spewing parts and pieces that were found as far as two miles away.

The current and much more rugged cross was constructed of white wood, laminated with stainless steel, and topped with a lightning rod.

In 1970, it was installed on the incredibly steep roof in an amazing way — via helicopter!

Above are the only known photographs of the helicopter-aided placement of the steeple on the Union Presbyterian Church. Harold Jones of Welte Roofing Co., stands precariously on the steeple, guiding the huge cross into place, where it still stands securely today, some 55 years later.

Finding anyone to take on this task was not easy. Finally, Harold Joseph Jones Jr., an employee of Pittsburgh’s Welte Roofing Co., stepped up to the plate, the only one brave enough to take on such a dangerous job.

Balancing at the steeple’s sharp pinnacle, he heroically and painstakingly guided the cross as the helicopter inched it into place. Jones, a Navy veteran, worked in the roofing business until his death at age 80 in 2013.

Since 1970, the familiar sight has been shining brightly.

Thanks to Harold’s son, John Paul Jones, for providing the photos and details of that amazing day to the Robinson Township Historical Society.