Hotel marks 150 years

LAKESIDE-MARBLEHEAD — This year, Hotel Lakeside celebrates 150 years. In the summer, the best seat is around the fountain overlooking the islands. The flowers are planted, the hostas are thriving, and you can hear children laughing at the beach. Did you know that sidewalks and bricks create the symbol of the Maltese Cross? Next time you head to Hotel Lakeside Front Lawn, take a closer look at the unique design. Learn more about the history of Hotel Lakeside: Then Hotel Lakeside was erected in 1875. Along with the Methodist Episcopal Chapel, now known as Heritage Hall, it is one of Lakeside's two original public buildings. This first section had 36 rooms, a dining room and an attached two-story outhouse. In 1879, an annex was built south of the main building. It consisted of 32 small rooms, for the purpose of housing the servants of hotel guests and hotel staff. In 1890, a hotel wing was added along Maple Street, nearly tripling the hotel's capacity by adding 77 guest rooms. Indoor plumbing and electricity were added about that same time. In 1914, the front porch was enlarged and a concrete floor was installed, along with a fireplace in the lobby. By the mid-20th century, deferred maintenance and neglect began to take their toll. The south annex was razed in 1963. Also in the 1960s, the second-floor porches were removed for safety. By 1972, more than half of the rooms were unusable, and the hotel was scheduled for demolition. A group of concerned Lakeside residents, determined to save and restore the hotel, formed the Friends of Hotel Lakeside to accomplish those goals. Lakeside's board of directors later changed course and resolved to save and preserve the hotel. For more than 40 years, The Friends of Hotel Lakeside have been dedicated to preserving and upgrading the facility. The most important improvements included complete rewiring, new plumbing, installation of a sprinkler system, elevator access, new kitchen, foundation repair and restoration as well as air conditioning of the dining room, lobby and all guest rooms. All of this has been completed with the help and cooperation of the Lakeside Chautauqua staff and the Lakeside board of directors. Now The hotel's long porch offers a commanding view of the lake and is a very popular gathering space for guests and visitors. The Victorian grace of the refurbished lobby invites guests and visitors to sit and reflect on times gone by. Just off the lobby is Artist N Cahoots, a shop featuring the work of local artists. Presently, 69 hotel rooms are available in a variety of sizes from traditional to luxury suites, all with private baths. Visit Hotel Lakeside, at lakesideohio.com/stay/hotel-lakeside, for reservations and additional information.