An Introduction to Folmont

The Folmont Property Owners Association (Folmont) is made up of 1,600 acres atop the Bald Knob Summit of Allegheny Mountain. Folmont got its inception in 1972 and was previously known as The Wilderness Club. The concept was to develop a tract of land as a residential mountain community. The property spans across Shade Township, Stonycreek Township and Allegheny Township in Somerset County as well as Juniata Township in Bedford County.

The Wilderness Club comprised a set of environmental and architectural covenants to sustain and promote a residential community with a wilderness architecture while preserving the natural environment. The early concept was that of a private gated community with restrictive covenants. In 1976, the Folmont Property Owners Association, Inc. was created as a non-profit corporation to enforce the covenants, enhance the community and preserve the park system.

Today, Folmont operates under a board of directors that oversee adherence to the covenants. There are 232 parcels of land making up 1,600 acres. Folmont has 8.5 miles of roads maintained by the association. Members of Folmont have access to two parks, McNeal Park and Dimock Park. Both parks have fishing ponds and pavilions for the enjoyment of property owners and their guests.

A piece of history dating back to the 1700’s is located within Folmont. Fort Dewart is the oldest surviving structure from the French and Indian War and recently was named to the National Register of Historic Landmarks. Fort Dewart, located along Forbes Road, is a redoubt where soldiers once stopped to rest as they traversed the harsh Allegheny Front on their way to capture Fort Duquesne. This property is located within Folmont and therefor is a shared ownership by the members of Folmont.

As a means to preserve the wilderness aesthetic and protect property values, the Architectural Control Committee approves all construction, excavation, tree cutting and placement of buildings and structures within Folmont. The beautiful wooded mountaintop provides a beautiful backdrop for over 200 property owners.