Hi-Level was the first public 18-hole golf course in Clarion County. It was constructed on the site of Fern City, an oil boom town with a population of 600 in 1885. In 1954, Edward Hess, a prominent oil and gas producer, and the current owners’ grandfather, purchased several tracts of rugged land. His main reason for the purchase was to improve the land in order to explore possible remaining oil reserves. The property encompasses two 100+ year old red barns with white trim and all original buildings on site that were part of the homestead farm (except the picnic pavilion).
The grounds also boast four man-made ponds, mostly flat course, with a few places of hilly terrain, surrounded by large wooded areas.
Fairways lined by pine trees, some of which are 30 to 40 feet high,
sit next to a 100+ year-old Protestant church and cemetery.
Although not a golfer himself, Hess wanted to find out if others would enjoy playing the game on the newly developed land.
Great care was taken to preserve the beauty of the natural country surroundings. The layout is fairly level with large bent grass greens and an adequate amount of bunkers. The fairways are wide and well manicured. When playing/filming Hi-Level, you’ll get the chance to conquer the monster 670 yard par 6 sixteenth hole. Other features include a well stocked pro shop, a separate 5 hole beginners course, driving range, rental clubs, a large paved parking lot and a pavilion for events.
Location
148 Hi-Level Lane
Kossuth, Pennsylvania, 16331, United States