Discovering the Fountain of Youth in Pittsburgh’s North Park

Discovering the Fountain of Youth in Pittsburgh’s North Park

Within the sprawling greenery of Allegheny County’s North Park lies a little-known gem, the Fountain of Youth. This hidden spring has captured the curiosity of visitors for generations and now sits abandoned in the woods.

Address: 10127 Kummer Rd, Wexford, PA 15090

Category: Roadside Attraction/Weird History

Duration: Quick Stop

Directions and Info

The Fountain of Youth can be found at 10127 Kummer Rd, Wexford, PA 15090. North Park is located about 15 miles north of downtown Pittsburgh. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. The fountain itself is not heavily marked, but a small gravel patch along the side of the road is available for visitors to park.

Small gravel roadside pull-off

The Allure of the Hidden Spring

The fountain can be viewed at a distance from the road, but for people who want a closer look, you will have to traverse down an embankment and cross a small stream. Boots are highly recommended if you wish to travel to the structure.

An overgrown path leading to the Fountain of Youth.

The structure was built in 1938, likely as part of a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project overseen by the New Deal. Designed as a springhouse in the likeness of a Roman grotto, its ornate stone facade and engraved disk proclaiming “Fountain of Youth” evoke ancient architecture.

Fountain of Youth Stone facade

In 1953, the pump mechanism began failing. Tests at the time found the water “cold, pure and clear” but lacking any obvious restorative magic. Just two years later, in 1955, water tests revealed contamination, prompting authorities to deem it unsafe for consumption. The pump handle was removed permanently.

The inside chamber where a pump would sit

Though the name “Fountain of Youth” suggests mythic rejuvenation, it’s unclear who coined it or whether it was meant humorously. Some sources imply the inscription was a whimsical flourish by the builders, not a literal claim. It goes without saying, you shouldn’t drink any of the water.

The roof of the structure

Though the springhouse ceased providing usable water in the 1950s, it remained structurally intact. In 2004, restoration efforts repaired the rockwork, and the engraved disk was remounted in 2009. Although some unfortunate non-family-friendly graffiti has appeared, the structure is in remarkable shape.

Final Thoughts

While it isn’t worth the trip to see itself, if you are passing by, or shopping in the area, it is definitely a unique piece of history left abandoned off the side of the road. After visiting, consider checking out the rest of North Park. The park’s 3,000-acres and 66-acre lake offer endless opportunities to turn a quick visit into a full day of exploration.

*Editors note: Some images of the Fountain of Youth stone were edited to remove inappropriate graffiti to make this article family-friendly.

Check out our YouTube channel below for our video covering the Fountain of Youth!

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Thanks for reading! Don’t forget to share the article and checkout these nearby places that you may enjoy!

© All Rights Reserved