Cambria County, established on March 26, 1804, was formed from parts of Huntingdon and Somerset Counties, with Ebensburg selected as the county seat in 1805 due to its central location.

Covering about 670 square miles, the county lies between the Allegheny Mountain and Laurel Hill, featuring rugged eastern terrain and gentler western slopes, with numerous waterways that historically supported travel and commerce. Settlement began in 1790 near present-day Loretto and grew with diverse groups, including Pennsylvania Germans, and Welsh immigrants who shaped the county’s cultural identity.

The economy was developed around coal, iron, and lumber, with agriculture and tourism also contributing. Cambria County boasts a vibrant arts and cultural scene, with year-round programs, exhibits, concerts, and workshops. The area is home to numerous museums and active theater groups, offering something for every interest. Popular festivals highlight the county’s rich Eastern European roots through traditional food, music, and colorful cultural displays.
 

PCHIPC provides a self-funded health insurance solution designed exclusively for county governments across the Commonwealth. Through the power of group purchasing, PCHIPC delivers a stable, transparent approach that helps counties access the self-insurance market while maintaining local control and long-term financial sustainability.

Our program is governed by member counties and built on a model that emphasizes financial transparency and predictable claims exposure. Through full claims visibility, data-driven cost-containment strategies, and comprehensive member resources, PCHIPC helps counties pay only for what they use, avoid volatility, establish predictable budgets, and improve plan performance to reduce long-term healthcare costs.

To learn more, please contact Zachary Peirson, VP Program Management (zpeirson@benecon.com).