Wenonah Lodge, built in 1897 by financier Julius Bache, is a distinguished Adirondack Great Camp located on Upper Saranac Lake, Tupper Lake. This historic property features a unique Victorian style infused with subtle Japanese influences, perfectly preserved to retain its original character. The Main camp includes 9 bedrooms, 6 baths, and 10 fireplaces, showcasing rustic Adirondack details like birch bark walls and peeled-log beams. Set on a sprawling plot with 235 feet of shoreline, the estate also offers a children’s playhouse, tea house, boathouse, and sandy beach. Priced at $3,950,000, Wenonah Lodge is a rare, turn-key treasure blending history, nature, and elegant lakefront living.
Lakeside Exterior View
A charming historic lakeside home nestled among dense green trees along the water’s edge. The house features a distinctive red roof with multiple chimneys and a turret, hinting at a classic architectural style. Surrounding the home is lush, mature forest providing ample privacy. A wooden dock extends into the calm lake, with a separate boathouse also topped by a red roof. The natural rock shoreline and well-kept lawn blend the built environment seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Outdoor seating near the water offers a tranquil spot for relaxation and enjoying the scenic views.
Private Driveway Entrance
A serene, tree-lined asphalt driveway winds gently uphill, flanked on either side by rustic stone pillars, signaling the entrance to a private property. The pillars are constructed from natural, multi-hued river stones with flat concrete caps, blending harmoniously with the surrounding mature hardwood and evergreen trees. The lush greenery creates a sheltered, forest-like ambiance, offering privacy and a peaceful transition from the road to the home beyond. A subtle house number plaque is visible on a tree to the left, nestled among rich moss and undergrowth that cover the ground, emphasizing a natural, untouched aesthetic.
Historic Estate Exterior
A sprawling historic estate nestled among lush greenery with multiple connected buildings featuring steeply pitched red shingle roofs. The dark wood siding contrasts beautifully with the vibrant green lawn that is meticulously maintained, creating a striking rustic charm. Stone walkways wind through the expansive yard, linking the main house and adjacent structures. Large, mature trees provide natural shade and frame the property, imparting tranquility and a strong sense of connection to nature. The structures evoke a classic American lodge aesthetic enhanced by wrap-around porches, balconies, and charming architectural details like dormer windows and a turret.
Historic House Exterior
A large historic home with complex architecture, featuring multiple red gabled roofs and a distinctive turret with a conical roof. The exterior is made of dark wood siding contrasted with the bright, red shingle roofing. Several stone chimneys rise above the roofline, adding a rustic, timeless character. A wraparound covered porch with wooden railings and hanging flower baskets surrounds the lower level, while balconies and decks offer outdoor living spaces on the upper floors. The well-maintained lawn includes Adirondack chairs arranged for relaxation, blending the structure harmoniously with its lush green surroundings.
Exterior Porch View
Rustic wooden architecture with a rich brown finish framed by stout wooden railings featuring cross patterns surrounds a spacious porch. The lower base combines natural stonework, lending a sturdy, earthy foundation. The roof is steeply pitched with a distinct, pointed turret capped in reddish shingles that contrast the wood. Flower baskets with colorful blooms add a lively touch at intervals along the railing. Stairs lead up to multiple rocking chairs and hanging decor, including an animal mount, evoking a classic lodge or cabin vibe nestled in lush green landscaping under a vibrant blue sky.
Covered Walkway and Lawn
A long covered wooden walkway with dark brown support beams and cross-braced railings runs across a lush green lawn. The roof is painted a striking deep red with a textured shingle pattern and includes a steeply pitched red turret in the center. In the background, a rustic stone chimney and wooden siding of a historic home are visible, surrounded by tall pine trees. Bright blue sky and dappled sunlight highlight the vibrant colors and natural setting, blending architectural charm with a serene woodland ambiance.
Exterior View with Porch
A historic two-story home constructed with dark stained wooden siding and accented by rugged stonework around the chimney and lower walls. The red-shingled hip roof complements the natural earth tones, and diamond-pane windows add an old-fashioned charm. A covered porch pointed by a steep conical roof sits at one side, inviting outdoor relaxation. The house is set on a well-maintained lawn with mature trees providing shade. The stone chimney rises prominently above the roofline, and a small wooden balcony extends from a rounded stone section, offering scenic views. The pathway leads gently to the entrance, emphasizing the warm, rustic character of this vintage residence.
Outdoor Pavilion
A small open-sided pavilion stands centered on a raised blue platform, accessible by a short concrete walkway. Its architectural style reflects a strong Asian influence with a wide, low-pitched roof and exposed rafters painted cream under the dark brown shingles. The structure’s vibrant red wooden beams and railings add contrast and warmth. Surrounding the pavilion, lush greenery and bright red flowering plants complement the natural setting beside a large body of water. The serene backdrop of trees and distant hills contributes to a peaceful, harmonious outdoor retreat.
Outdoor Gazebo Seating
Wooden gazebo with a rich brown finished ceiling and sturdy beams offers a cozy gathering spot. The floor is constructed of polished wooden planks, complementing the rustic aesthetic. Woven wicker chairs and a small matching table are arranged inside, enhancing the natural, handcrafted feel. Lantern-style pendant lighting hangs from the ceiling center, adding warmth during evening use. Open sides provide clear views of lush green trees, a manicured lawn, and a lake beyond, blending indoor comfort with scenic outdoor serenity. This gazebo forms an inviting, tranquil retreat ideal for relaxation or casual conversation in nature’s embrace.
Outdoor Patio Seating
Wooden patio furniture, including tables and chairs painted in a deep reddish-brown, is arranged on a stone-paved terrace. The patio is adjacent to a rustic wooden home with a dark brown exterior, featuring diamond-pane windows and a balcony with crossed railings. Hanging planters with vibrant red flowers add color to the shaded porch area. In the background, expansive green lawn stretches toward another similar wooden building with a prominent stone chimney and a red roof. Tall pine trees surround the area, contributing to a serene, natural setting under a bright blue sky.
Garden Pathway
A stone pathway meanders through a lush, expansive green lawn bordered by tall, mature pine trees. The path is constructed from irregularly shaped flat stones, adding a rustic charm to the natural setting. Sunlight filters through the dense foliage, casting dappled shadows on the neatly trimmed grass. To the right, a wooden gazebo with a reddish roof and crisscross railing provides a charming spot for relaxation. The background reveals dense forest, enhancing the secluded, tranquil atmosphere of this garden area, blending natural beauty with subtle, inviting landscaping elements.
Outdoor Patio and Yard
A charming outdoor area of a historic American home with two connected rustic wooden buildings, exhibiting a warm brown wood siding contrasted by a red shingled roof. The space features a large, lush green lawn bordered by a stone-paved walkway leading to the entrances. A covered patio with hanging flower baskets brightens the scene with pops of red, accompanied by outdoor wooden furniture including tables and chairs painted in red. Architectural details include a wraparound wooden balcony with cross-braced railings and a classic red brick chimney, set against a vibrant blue sky with scattered white clouds.
Exterior View and Garden Pathway
A rustic historic American home is nestled amidst lush greenery. The wooden siding is stained a deep brown, harmonizing with the red roof shingles and brick chimney. A stone pathway leads from the foreground towards the main entrance, bordered by a well-manicured lawn. Hanging flower baskets add vibrant spots of red to the porch area. Large mature trees frame the property, providing shade and a picturesque setting. Balconies with cross-braced railings enhance the architectural detail, while an attached building and covered walkway extend the approachable, country-style charm of the residence.
Balcony Overlook
Rustic wooden siding in deep brown tones clads this balcony area, highlighted by matching wooden framed doors and windows with screen panels. The flooring appears to be a weatherproof material designed for outdoor use, showing subtle wear that adds character. A sturdy wooden railing with a crisscross pattern offers safety and a charming architectural detail. The balcony overlooks a lush green lawn dotted with trees, and beyond lies a peaceful body of water with forested hills in the distance. The sky above is dramatic, with large, fluffy clouds punctuating vivid blue, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere.
Balcony Overlooking Garden
A wooden balcony with warm, reddish-brown railings and Adirondack chairs overlooks a serene outdoor space. The balcony railing showcases a decorative cross pattern, complementing the rustic charm of the home’s wooden exterior. Below, a neatly maintained lawn stretches out with paved walkways connecting to two charming gazebos topped with red, shingled roofs. Tall, dense trees partially obscure a tranquil lake beyond, blending nature with the built environment. The setting evokes peacefulness and privacy, with earthy tones from the natural wood and foliage harmonizing under a soft, cloud-dappled sky.
Dining Room with Fireplace
Long wooden dining table accompanied by tall slatted wooden chairs dominates the center of the room, positioned upon an intricate, richly colored oriental rug. Walls clad in textured bark or log panels evoke a rustic, lodge-like ambiance, complemented by a heavy stone fireplace topped with a mounted bison head. The ceiling is finished with warm-toned wood paneling, contrasted by teal-painted window and door frames. An antler chandelier hangs as a focal point above the dining table, adding to the natural, wilderness-inspired décor. Natural light filters through curtained windows, further highlighting the cozy, historic character of this elegant dining area.
Entryway with Reading Nook
Natural wood tones dominate this inviting entryway, featuring an intricately paneled ceiling and walls with a textured, rustic finish reminiscent of birch bark. A mounted ram’s head contributes to the lodge-like atmosphere. A cozy built-in window bench, cushioned for comfort, curves beneath large multi-paned windows, allowing abundant natural light and scenic views. The floor’s hardwood sheen complements a richly patterned red area rug beneath a small centerpiece table made from branches, enhancing the nature-inspired theme. A bear skin rug adds a final touch, integrating rustic wilderness charm with cozy practicality. Warm lighting fixtures illuminate the space elegantly.
Rustic Fireplace Hall
Centered in the room is a large stone fireplace, crowned with a mounted buffalo head, lending a strong rustic, lodge-like ambiance. Wooden paneling runs halfway up the walls, topped by textured, sepia-toned murals that evoke an aged, historical feel. Two long wooden benches flank the room, each topped with dark, floral-patterned cushions that complement the warm wood tones. A richly patterned, earth-toned rug adds warmth and character to the wood plank floor. The ceiling, also crafted from wood, is smooth and polished. Additional mounted animal heads and lace curtains over doorways enhance the vintage, wilderness-inspired aesthetic.
Rustic Living Room
The space is defined by warm, knotty pine paneling covering walls and ceiling with a coffered wood design. A large stone fireplace with a mounted moose head dominates one side, contributing a lodge-like ambiance. Rich leather armchairs and sofas in caramel tones surround a central wooden coffee table atop a vibrant, patterned area rug featuring deep reds and greens. The room is illuminated by classic sconces and a wrought iron chandelier. Diamond-patterned upper windows allow natural light, complemented by heavy, ornate drapery framing clear glass windows, evoking a cozy, historic mountain retreat atmosphere.
Rustic Living Room
Wood-paneled walls and ceiling create a warm, cabin-like atmosphere. A large, colorful patterned area rug with reds, blues, and greens anchors the space. The seating includes a worn leather couch, matching ottoman, and two tan leather armchairs with animal motif pillows. A wooden coffee table with a glass top sits center. Vintage elements include an upright piano with intricate wood carvings and an ornate wall clock. The cavernous stone fireplace is flanked by a long red leather bench. Mounted animal heads add a rustic hunting lodge touch. Large windows offer natural light and forest views.
Cozy Wooden Kitchen
Warm, honey-toned wood panels envelop the walls and ceiling, creating an inviting rustic atmosphere. The kitchen island, made of the same wood, has open shelving and a smooth top that echoes the natural grain beneath. Granite countertops extend along the U-shaped layout, complemented by light-wood cabinetry featuring glass-paneled upper doors. Black appliances blend subtly under the counters. Two large windows provide natural light and frame the sturdy metal sink. Traditional yet practical lighting hangs from the exposed beam ceiling, with a mix of recessed and pendant fixtures enhancing the homey ambiance. Decorative details, like vintage signs and practical towel racks, add character.
Rustic Kitchen and Dining Area
The space combines a warm, inviting kitchen and dining area with extensive use of rich, polished wood on the walls, ceiling, floor, and furniture. A large butcher-block table, flanked by a sturdy wooden bench and rustic chairs with a natural branch-like design, anchors the dining space. Above the central kitchen island, a wrought iron rack holds an array of polished copper pots and pans, lending an artisanal touch. Stainless steel appliances and a sizable stove contrast with the wood, emphasizing functionality. Multi-pane windows with diamond mullions provide natural light and views of the lush exterior porch and yard. Rustic charm meets practicality in this cozy yet refined setting.
Rustic Kitchen Island
The kitchen displays a rich wood-paneled ceiling and walls, complemented by a large brick accent wall behind the stove. A commercial-grade stainless steel range with multiple burners and two ovens dominates one side, with a unique black metal hood overhead. A central wooden island showcases a butcher-block style top with a mounted spice rack and decorative cabinetry, accented by rustic branch-like handles. Above the island, a circular black pot rack hangs polished copper pots, adding both function and charm. The floor combines warm wood with a tiled cooking area, while diamond-patterned windows add a historic touch and allow outdoor views. The overall aesthetic exudes warmth and timeless rustic elegance.
Upstairs Hallway
Wood paneling covers walls, ceiling, and floors in a warm honey tone, lending a cozy and historic ambiance. A collection of old framed photographs and portraits adorns the right wall, offering a sense of heritage. The ceiling light fixtures have vintage charm with soft glowing bulbs. A black bear hide is mounted on the wall near the stairwell, enhancing the rustic aesthetic. A cast iron radiator topped with a vintage watering can adds to the authenticity. The hallway leads to rooms with evenly spaced doorways and a glimpse of classic furnishings, emphasizing period character.
Wood-paneled Bedroom
Warm wood paneling covers the walls and ceiling, creating a cozy, cabin-like atmosphere. A rich red oriental rug with intricate patterns anchors the polished hardwood floor under a wooden bed draped in a patchwork quilt in navy blue and tan tones complemented by deep blue pillows. Large windows on two sides of the room are framed by floral drapes, bringing natural light and a touch of softness. Classic wooden furniture pieces, including a bookshelf, dresser, and marble-topped cabinet, maintain a historic, artisanal feel with carved details and rich wood finishes, enhancing the vintage charm.
Bedroom with Fireplace
Rich honey-toned wood clad walls, ceiling, and floors create a warm and inviting ambiance, enhanced by matching wooden doors with distinctive panel designs. The focal point is a brick fireplace with an arched opening, flanked by a small bookshelf filled with colorful books. A large, intricately patterned quilt in deep blues and creams covers the bed, complemented by dark pillows that add depth. Soft wall sconces on either side cast a gentle glow, while a vibrant red oriental rug anchors the space, adding texture and contrast to the predominantly wooden room. The overall style leans toward rustic charm with historical character.
Bedroom with Fireplace
The room is enveloped in warm, honey-toned wooden paneling covering walls and ceiling, creating a cozy, cabin-like atmosphere. A brick fireplace with a gentle arch anchors one corner, flanked by vintage oil lamps and a wooden dresser topped with a mirror framed in carved wood. The black metal bed frame contrasts the reds and whites of the patchwork quilt and checked bed skirt, adding a rustic charm. A large patterned area rug in muted reds, blues, and creams spreads across the polished wooden floor. A comfortablewingback chair with a coordinating pillow and framed portraits complete the inviting, historic aesthetic.
Rustic Bedroom Interior
Warm wood paneling envelops the room from floor to ceiling, creating a cozy, cabin-like ambiance. The bed’s headboard and footboard are crafted with a rustic, handcrafted aesthetic, decorated with diamond patterns that echo a traditional style. Rich, floral bedding complements the deep red and brown hues of the large Persian rug that anchors the space. Two upholstered armchairs face a wide set of windows adorned with plaid curtains, allowing natural light to mingle with the glow from a vintage green-shaded bedside lamp. A wooden dresser with an antique oil lamp completes the historic, welcoming atmosphere.
Sunroom with Lake View
Warm, honey-toned wood paneling covers the walls, ceiling, and window frames, enhancing the cozy ambiance of this sunroom. A series of tall, narrow windows offers an expansive view of lush greenery and a peaceful lake beyond, with distant mountains on the horizon. Natural light floods the space, illuminating a soft, earth-toned couch adorned with patterned throw pillows that complement the colorful, geometric area rug on the polished wooden floor. The simple yet inviting furniture arrangement encourages relaxation while embracing the stunning natural scenery outside. The room’s design reflects rustic charm mixed with casual comfort.
Bathroom with Vintage Charm
Walls and ceiling clad in warm, horizontally grooved wood paneling create a cozy atmosphere. A small porcelain sink with a marble backsplash hangs on the wall beneath an antique, wooden cabinet with an oval mirror. Two sconces with frosted glass shades flank the sink, adding soft light. A richly patterned oriental rug covers the wooden floor, enhancing the room’s vintage feel. The window above a rustic wooden chest has diamond-patterned muntins and is framed by curtain panels with a nature-inspired print. A woven laundry basket and a towel bar complete this charming, period-style bathroom.
Hallway View: Bathroom and Bedroom
Warm honey-toned wood paneling covers both the walls and ceiling, introducing a rustic, cabin-like atmosphere. Two doorways are framed with intricate wooden molding, one leading into a compact bathroom with a classic wooden vanity topped with white porcelain dishes and a tiled backsplash. The other doorway opens to a cozy bedroom where rich textures converge—a traditional patterned area rug in deep reds and blues covers the floor, a wooden bed frame with a plaid bedspread, and a large stone fireplace adorned with a lattice wooden mantelpiece add historic charm and comfort to the space.
Rustic Bathroom Interior
Wood-paneled walls and ceiling create a warm, cabin-like atmosphere with a rich natural grain. A freestanding clawfoot bathtub with vintage-style silver fixtures sits beneath a window with checkered curtains, framed by dark wood trim and diamond-patterned muntins. The white porcelain toilet features a wooden seat cover, blending classic and rustic styles. A soft, patterned Persian rug with red and beige tones adds elegance and comfort on the wooden floor. The room includes a marble countertop with a built-in sink and a wooden cabinet topped with beige stone, combining functional and historic charm.
Rustic Bunk Bedroom
Cozy bunk bedroom with handcrafted log beds, the larger bed on the bottom and two smaller individual bunks to the right, creating a cabin retreat ambiance. Walls and ceiling are clad in honey-toned beadboard paneling, enhancing warmth and texture. A wood table or dresser with a square-based wooden lamp featuring a geometric patterned shade sits on the left. A traditional, vibrant red and green patterned rug adds color and contrast to the wood floors. Natural light filters through the window draped with plaid curtains, complementing the bedding’s similar plaid design, evoking a classic rustic charm.
Listing Agent: Rob Gillis of Merrill L. Thomas – Gillis Team via Zillow