The Fountain of Youth in North Park: A Pittsburgh Urban Legend
Is there really a fountain of youth in North Park outside of Pittsburgh? The answer to this question is… yes. Kind of. Why is it an urban legend? Well… because you supposedly have to discover a fountain of youth, not create one! Built in the late 1930s, this roadside attraction near Pittsburgh was part of a broader government program aimed at providing employment during challenging times. Despite its enchanting allure, the Fountain of Youth remains a hidden gem, often overshadowed by more prominent attractions in the area.
Visitors to the Fountain of Youth North Park are invited on a journey unlike any other. Through a small hike down an embankment and across a creek, adventurers find themselves at a site that seems to have leaped out of a science fiction narrative. Positioned at 10127 Kummer Rd, Wexford, PA 15090, this unique roadside attraction not only offers a peek into the past but also serves as a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of Pittsburgh.
The Legend of the Fountain of Youth
Despite its enchanting name, the Fountain of Youth in North Park, Pittsburgh, does not possess the power to grant eternal youth. The allure of such a fountain, however, has captivated human imagination across various cultures throughout history.
- Global Legends and Myths
- Greek, Japanese, Polynesian, and English folklore all recount tales of magical waters capable of reversing the aging process.
- Among the Taino Indians of the Caribbean, stories of rejuvenating rivers were prevalent.
- The legend gained significant momentum in the 16th century with Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León, often mistakenly believed to have searched for the Fountain of Youth in Florida.
Ponce de León’s association with the Fountain of Youth is more myth than fact. Historical records indicate:
- He never mentioned the Fountain of Youth in any of his contracts or documents.
- The myth was posthumously linked to him by Gonzalo Fernández de Oviedo y Valdés, aiming to discredit Ponce de León for political reasons.
This narrative of eternal youth, rejuvenation, and the quest for immortality reflects humanity’s timeless fascination with defying the natural aging process. Today, the story of the Fountain of Youth continues to inspire, serving as a metaphor for our pursuit of vitality and longevity.
Pittsburgh’s Fountain of Youth: Origin and Design
The Fountain of Youth in North Park, a creation of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in 1938, stands as a remarkable piece of Pittsburgh’s history. Designed with Roman aesthetics in mind, it served not only as a source of fresh water but also as a tranquil retreat from the industrial smog enveloping the city. Here are some key aspects of its origin and design:
- Construction and Inspiration:
- Built by the WPA during the late 1930s.
- Aimed to emulate the serene and ornate style of Roman bathhouses and grottos.
- Features and Aesthetics:
- Utilized a variety of stone colors for visual appeal.
- Included a domed ceiling and a small rectangular opening leading to the spring, enhancing its Roman bathhouse resemblance.
- A star-shaped formation of pine trees, planted in 1938, visible from satellite imagery even today.
- Location and Accessibility:
- Situated along Kummer Road in North Park, with GPS coordinates 40.599920, -80.021132.
- Despite its proximity to the road, reaching the fountain involves navigating an eroded hillside and crossing a creek, adding to its secluded charm.
This architectural gem, while designed for practicality with its spring water source, quickly became a symbol of respite and beauty in Allegheny County.
A Glimpse into Its Past Glory
In its heyday, the Fountain of Youth North Park was not just a marvel of construction but a beacon that drew visitors from far and wide. Its allure was undeniable, with people flocking from all corners of the region to witness its supposed mystical properties. This attraction was a significant part of Pittsburgh’s elaborate parks system, designed not only for its aesthetic appeal but also as a practical water source for the locals.
- Popularity Peak:
- Initially, a significant attraction in the area.
- Drew visitors region-wide, marking it as a must-see destination.
However, the fountain’s glory began to wane in the 1950s when tests revealed that the water contained high levels of bacteria, rendering it unsafe for human consumption. This discovery marked the end of the fountain as a popular water source, although it continued to flow in the backdrop of the structure, a silent witness to its own decline.
- Decline:
- 1950s: Water deemed unfit due to high bacterial levels.
- Ceased to be a popular water source by 1955.
Despite its faded glory, the Fountain of Youth remains a site of historical significance and continues to be a kid-friendly attraction within North Park, alongside the water tower with its terrazzo floor, the Blue Mist Trail, and Pittsburgh’s Gravity Hill. These attractions together weave a rich tapestry of North Park’s cultural and recreational offerings.
- Current Attractions:
- Still part of North Park’s kid-friendly sites.
- Neighbors include the water tower, Blue Mist Trail, and Gravity Hill.
From Prosperity to Abandonment
In the years following its peak popularity, the Fountain of Youth North Park witnessed a gradual decline, transitioning from a cherished local attraction to a site marked by neglect and abandonment. This shift can be attributed to several key events:
- Water Safety Concerns:
- 1953: The pump broke down, and subsequent tests by chemists found the water lacked any anti-aging properties.
- 1955: Further testing revealed the presence of coliform organisms, rendering the water unfit for human consumption. The pump handle was removed, effectively drying up the fountain.
- Restoration Efforts:
- 2005: The rock work around the spring entrance underwent repairs.
- 2009: The Fountain of Youth disk was remounted, though with a noticeable color variation from its original state.
- Current Status:
- The site is now abandoned, with the pump inside the spring house removed to discourage water drawing.
- Despite the potential for restoration, the effects of water erosion over the years have left the site in need of significant work.
- A geocache (GC6WK77) behind the fountain along a trail hints at the location’s lingering intrigue among enthusiasts.
The Fountain Today: A Hidden Gem
Despite its hidden status, the Fountain of Youth in North Park remains a captivating destination for those seeking a unique experience amidst nature. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:
- Location & Access:
- Address: 10127 Kummer Rd, Wexford, PA 15090
- GPS Coordinates: 40.599920, -80.021132
- Parking: Available via a small space on the roadside or near the golf course. From there, a descent down a dirt path and a small creek crossing leads adventurers to this hidden gem.
- Journey to the Fountain:
- From Parking Area: Descend the dirt footpath.
- Cross: Navigate across a small stream.
- Uphill Trek: Walk approximately 100 feet uphill to reach the fountain.
- Nearby Attractions:
- The Best Waterfalls Near Pittsburgh Road Trip: A scenic adventure.
- McConnells Mill State Park & Fall Run Falls: Explore the beauty of nature.
- Playthings Etc. in Butler County: A unique shopping experience.
This secluded spot, believed by some to possess healing properties, offers more than just a peek into history. Though the water is not safe for consumption, the fountain’s location in North Park, surrounded by the lush woods and accessible after a brief hike, provides a tranquil retreat. The journey itself, involving navigating through nature, adds to the allure of discovering this roadside attraction.
The fountain of youth in North Park trasnformed from a bustling, popular attraction to its present status as a serene, somewhat forgotten piece of history tucked away in nature. Its origins as a part of the Works Progress Administration’s efforts in the 1930s, the myths surrounding eternal youth, and its eventual decline due to health concerns illustrate a rich tapestry of human endeavor, imagination, and the inevitable passage of time. The journey to and discovery of the fountain, set against the backdrop of Pittsburgh’s diverse landscape, offers visitors a unique blend of adventure, history, and tranquility.
Despite its decline in popularity and the challenges it faces in terms of water safety and structural integrity, the Fountain of Youth remains a poignant reminder of Pittsburgh’s vibrant history and the enduring allure of myth in the human psyche. The implications of its existence continue to resonate with those who seek to uncover and appreciate the lesser-known narratives that shape our local environments. For adventurers, history enthusiasts, or simply those in search of a peaceful escape, the Fountain of Youth in North Park beckons as a hidden gem worth exploring, embodying tales of hope, rejuvenation, and the beauty of nature’s embrace.
FAQs
What is the significance of the fountain located in North Park? The North Park fountain, known as Pittsburgh’s Fountain of Youth, was constructed in 1938. It is a springhouse designed to mimic a Roman cavern, as detailed in the historical records of the Latodami Nature Center in North Park.
Can you explain the Fountain of Youth in terms children would understand? The Fountain of Youth is based on an ancient Taino Indian legend. It tells of a magical spring on the island of Bimini and a river, later associated with Florida, whose waters were believed to have the power to rejuvenate anyone who bathed in them.
Where is the Fountain of Youth believed to be? The Fountain of Youth is humorously claimed to be in St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S. There is a tourist attraction there, over a century old, that playfully suggests it is the same fountain discovered by Ponce de Leon after his arrival in what is now Florida in 1513.
Where is the Fountain of Youth located for visitors to see? Visitors can explore the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park in St. Augustine, Florida. This park is a homage to the supposed landing site of Ponce de León. Promotional materials reference this location, although there is no historical or archaeological evidence to substantiate the fountain’s existence there.
