Led by a trained guide, you will explore historic buildings and points of interest on the property that evoke the stories of the Overholt and Frick families, as well as the numerous workers who made West Overton a busy industrial complex.
On your tour of West Overton Village, you will:
- Tour the original homestead of the Overholt family built in 1838. Explore the very rooms in which Abraham and Maria Overholt spent their time. See the accounting desk used by Abraham along with the preservation efforts made by Helen Clay Frick, daughter of industrialist Henry Clay Frick, upon her purchase of the site in 1922.
- See how the village represents the transformation of American culture in the 19th century. Through stories and artifacts, observe the nation’s transformation from an agrarian society to an industrial society by exploring the production of woven coverlets, whiskey distilling, coal mining, and ultimately the production of coke, a necessary ingredient for steel.
- Explore the grounds around the homestead including the gardens, an outdoor kitchen, and the springhouse where Henry Clay Frick was born in 1849.
- Visit the Educational Distillery and see the first distilling operation at West Overton in 100 years. Learn about the history, process, and science of distilling rye whiskey, an important product of 19th century Pennsylvania farmers.
Planning for your guided tour:
- Guided tours are offered May - October
- Admissions is located in the Museum.
- Guided tours begin on the hour. The first tour begins at 10:00 a.m. The last tour begins at 3:00 p.m.
- Each tour is approximately one hour and led by a trained guide.
- A portion of the tour takes place outdoors, so please plan accordingly for weather conditions.
- Please review our campus accessibility and contact us to discuss accommodations.