A Taste of Laurel Highlands History

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In 1800, Henry Overholt, his wife Maria and a group of 30 people moved from eastern Pennsylvania to the state’s southwestern corner to settle at present-day West Overton. Shortly thereafter, other Mennonite families joined the Overholts to create a rather large self-sustaining farming community and village. One of the first items built on the property was a small distillery in order to make rye whiskey for trading with other nearby settlers. In 1810, Henry’s son Abraham began selling whiskey commercially. Since then, the company’s brand, Old Overholt, has become the world’s longest continuously-operating whiskey brand.

Abraham’s daughter Elizabeth married John W. Frick, a gristmill worker. In 1849, their son Henry Clay Frick was born in the spring house, which is adjacent to the Overholt family home. As an adult, Frick played a major role in the formation of U.S. Steel, financed the construction of the Pennsylvania Railroad and was a founding member of the South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club, site of the catastrophic Johnstown Flood of 1889.

In summer 2019, West Overton Distilling Company will open its doors in what was formerly a stock barn. Visitors will be able to see the distillery process up close, sample the unaged whiskey

made onsite and eventually purchase a bottle to enjoy at home. The second floor of the distillery will be a loft that can host small events of up to 40 people, perfect for cocktail parties, bridal showers and more.

Today, visitors can tour the Overholts’ original home, step foot in the spring house in which Frick was born and explore the Distillery Museum, which once housed both the gristmill and distillery.

Eighteen of the original buildings still stand today, along with features like the big barn, gardens, Overholt Room and mansion front yard, which double as wedding venues.

At West Overton Village, couples have the option of two unique and distinct rooms: a beautiful rustic barn and the Overholt Room, a charming setting with partially-exposed brick walls. The garden and lawn in front of the homestead are picture perfect places for an intimate outdoor ceremony.

Now an official site on the American Whiskey Trail, West Overton has come full circle. A tour of the site offers visitors an experience complete with history, spirits and celebrations.

FEES

Advanced reservations are required. Groups, seniors, military and students receive a discounted rate.

HOURS

Guided village tours are available five days a week May through October.

CONTACT

109 West Overton Road, Scottdale, PA 15683 | 724-887-7910