NEMACOLIN RESORT By John Companiotte
Mystic # 11
It is easy to appreciate why western Pennsylvania attracted settlement from the British Isles two hundred years ago . The land has a character similar to the Yorkshire area of England , with softly rolling hills , abundant forests , and a temperate climate .
A more recent appreciator of this environment was a Pittsburgh industrialist , Willard F . Rockwell , who in 1949 purchased an initial 60 acres of what evolved to become Nemacolin Resort , Pennsylvania ’ s premier luxury resort destination . In 1968 , after accumulating more land , Rockwell established the Nemacolin Trails Hunting Reserve , which included a new hunting lodge . Today , The Lodge still proudly welcomes guests to explore , adventure , and enjoy the remarkable natural surroundings .
In 1987 , Joseph A . Hardy , III , founder of the 84 Lumber Company , set out to buy a few acres near a lake or stream for his daughter , Maggie Hardy Knox , who loved fishing . But , instead he fell in love with Nemacolin and purchased a large portion of land . What began as a thoughtful gift for his daughter turned into a lifetime project they would share , building something truly magical together .
Since 2002 , Maggie , now joined by her son P . J . Magerko , has continued to lead the way and expand the vision of Nemacolin . The family continues to add features and experiences to attract guests to make multiple visits to the property .
Recently Nemacolin debuted one of the country ’ s most exclusive , amenities- and service-laden membership opportunities with the freshly-curated private club offering called The Woodlands Club . The Woodlands Club membership takes excellent advantage of the 2,200-acre , four-season resort ’ s recreational , dining , adventure , and leisure amenities , plus around-the-clock concierge service and access to private aviation . Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains and home to Mystic Rock
PORTFOLIO MAGAZINE 47