Cool fall days are when people dream the unexpected and begin to plan for the spectacular. Most likely, one stays inside near a warm fire; a perfect place to dream on those chilly, fall days. Lakeside Chautauqua’s history began on one of those very days more than 140 years ago.
The community that emerged in the late 19th century was a pioneer of the Chautauqua Movement; one of the greatest spiritual and educational reform movements in American history. Established in 1873, Lakeside immediately drew thousands of people to the shores of Lake Erie each summer, who were seeking spiritual and cultural refreshment.
That same year, Lakesiders built the first seats and stands in Central Park, the first permanent home was built and the first 300’ dock was built to welcome those who, for years, would arrive by steamers.
