Go Somerset Pa

The Petersburg Toll House was constructed during the 1830’s in order to maintain one of the nation’s first federally funded roads.  The National Road, which was opened to the public in 1818, was expensive to maintain and developed many ruts due to heavy transportation of goods and people.

If you’re yearning to learn more about colonial America, then the Somerset Historical Center (SHC) is a great place to start.  Here you can visit various outdoor exhibits, including a 1770’s Homestead, and join in on various activities.  Guided tours through the outdoor exhibits are available April 1 through November 1 each year.  Included at the Visitors Center are a  genealogical research library and addtional changing exhibits.

Much of Somerset County’s rich history is archived within the County Courthouse.  Constructed in 1798 by Robert Spencer, the building cost about $5,600 to complete.  The building was finished during the spring of 1801 and was occupied for 50 years after that.