When it comes to finding a place to live or visit, it's been said there are three important factors
to consider - location, location and location.
The first inhabitants of the area, the Shawnee, Iroqoi and Delaware, Found Somerset County to be a great
location. Abundant food, water, and space to raise a family were attractions to these people ,and are still
attractive today.
In the earliest days, Somerset County was crossed by Nemicolin's Trail later became known as Route 40. The
northern trail became Forbes Road, later Route 30. These trails today are still primary arteries of
commerce.
European hunters and trappers were the leading edge of the exploration of Somerset County. Harmond
Husband arrived in 1771. In 1791 Congress placed a tax on whiskey. Commissioned officers were then sent
to collect these taxes, causing rebellion. Husband, along with General Robert Philson of Berlin,
protested, were arrested and taken to Philadelphia for trial. They were released by order of President
George Washington, but Husband died of fever on his way back home.
In 1795 Somerset County was formed from Bedford. Somerset was officially chosen as a proper place for
the seat of justice in the county and the first term of court was held. The first county building is
thought to be a temporary jail of logs.
Somerset County has been called the "Roofgarden of Pennsylvania" as well as "The Land of Milk and Maple."
The county is known for its agriculture, coal mining, wind farms and various industries.
Mount Davis, the highest point in Pennsylvania at 3,213 feet, is centered in Somerset County among
the Laurel and Allegheny mountains. Ski resorts, the Great Allegheny Passage, and many indoor and
outdoor activities offer year-round fun for residents and tourists alike in Somerset County.
The area is the right location for your residential, tourist and economic needs.
*Taken
from the Chamber of Commerce 2006 Membership Directory*