If you’re looking for information about the Somerset Historical Center, you’re in the right place!
The Somerset Historical Center is a museum that explores the evolution of rural life in southwestern Pennsylvania, with an emphasis on Somerset County in particular.
The exhibits here date back to the times when the first Native Americans resided in the region.
The displays, dioramas, and artifacts then unfold in chronological fashion as you make your way through the museum.
Since agriculture played (and still plays) such a large part in the development of Somerset County, you’ll see many exhibits related to the evolution of farming in the region.
You’ll learn about the construction of log houses, and later get to see actual examples by touring some of the museum’s outdoor exhibits.
You’ll also learn about early non-agricultural industries and trades that were part of the county’s development.
Fluck Hall, a separate building open by request, houses a large collection of agricultural equipment dating back to the early 1800s.
Outdoor Exhibits at the Somerset Historical Center
The Somerset Historical Center is home to numerous outdoor exhibits, including some historic structures that were disassembled and relocated to the museum’s 150-acre grounds to prevent their destruction.
The Adam Miller Farmhouse
The Adam Miller Farmhouse (built in the 1790s) is the centerpiece of the museum’s recreated 1830s Farmstead.
The main floor of the house served simultaneously as a kitchen, bedroom and workroom.
An herb and vegetable garden behind the farmhouse represents the only way fresh produce could be obtained in this time period.
Walter’s Mill Covered Bridge
Walter’s Mill Covered Bridge was built in 1859 near Somerset, and moved to the Historical Center grounds in the 1960s to prevent its destruction (it had become obsolete in the era of heavier cars and trucks).
Today it is one of ten remaining covered bridges in Somerset County, and a particularly beautiful spot to visit in mid-October.
Mountain Craft Days at the Somerset Historical Center
Mountain Craft Days is one of the Somerset Historical Center’s signature events.
This three-day outdoor festival (held each year on the weekend following Labor Day) featuring more than 125 artisans and entertainers interpreting rural life in western PA in the 18th and 19th centuries.
This festival is an excellent way to learn how the first European settlers in western PA lived, worked, ate, and played.
I’ve written an extensive article about attending Mountain Craft Days, which you can view HERE.
Hours and Directions
The Somerset Historical Center is located 4 miles north of the Somerset exit off the PA Turnpike.
If navigating by GPS, use 10649 Somerset Pike, Somerset, PA 15501 as the street address for the museum.
The Somerset Historical Center is open Wednesday-Saturday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, closed Sunday-Tuesday.
Admission prices are as follows: Adults $6.00, Senior 65+ $5.50, Children 3 – 11 $3.00, Children 2 & Under FREE.
For more information or to confirm hours of operation, please visit the Somerset Historical Center’s OFFICIAL WEBSITE.
Nearby Attractions
Exploring the Covered Bridges of Somerset County takes you on a tour of all ten historic covered bridges in the county.
21 Must-See Attractions in Somerset County is your guide to even more great things to see and do near the Somerset Historical Center.
The Johnstown Heritage Discovery Center in neighboring Cambria County is a museum that tells the story of the region’s iron, steel, and coal industries through the eyes of the everyday people who were the backbone of those enterprises.
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