The Fine Cottage 
 

The exterior of the cottage is as it was built in 1879, except for the gingerbread.

It was built for Rev. Bejamin Franklin Wade, then a Methodist minister serving the community.

The house has classical bi-level left to right wrap around porches.

The house underwent a major renovation in 1991-92 by Joe and Anne Prezio, long-time Chautauquans. The house was lifted, a foundation poured and winterized. Much of the original hos was kept in place, with additions matched as closely as possible.

As you enter, the parlor room and sitting room have original cucumber wood flooring. The fireplace manel and fireplace are not original and stand where a small bedroom and shower and sink once stood. The sitting room was originally a bedroom.

The kitchen and downstairs both were totally renovated. The kitchen contains an antique Hoosier cabinet. The little shelf was original to the house, having been previously located in the front alcove. Immediately below the shelf the site of the original downstairs flush toilet, thought to be the first to be put in operation in Chautauqua. The sink in the bathroom is a pedestal sink, circa 1910 and the wainscoting and cupboard were fabricated to simulate the original style of the old bathroom.

The staircase leading to the second floor was modified to conform to code. The oval stained-glass windows date to 1890 and were originally from an old Buffalo home (along with the fireplace mantel).

The cottage has about 2,000 square feet of living space over three stories (pls a finished basement). With three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. Not originally part of the 1991-92 renovation, the third floor was renovated by architect David McKee.

The Fines have owned the cottage since 2010 and enjoy family, friends and neighbors through out the year.