The history of Springside Inn begins many years ago. Nestled in the rich, historic landscape of the Finger Lakes, Springside Inn has long been a place of gathering, connection, and hospitality. More than 175 years after its founding, the property continues to offer the best of the Finger Lakes experience—where history, natural beauty, and meaningful celebrations come together.
In 1851, Springside began as more than a property; it began as a vision. Reverend Samuel R. Brown, a missionary, teacher, and pastor of the nearby Dutch Reformed Church, purchased the Waring farm with the dream of establishing a school for boys. He built a boarding school on the property and, inspired by the natural springs found nearby, gave it the name Springside.
From its earliest days, Springside was a place where people came to learn, grow, and connect. That spirit of bringing people together has remained at the heart of the property through every chapter of its history.
The land itself has a story that reaches back even further. More than two hundred years ago, Native Americans would hunt and fish along the shores of Owasco Lake and traveled from a nearby village to collect drinking water from the natural springs that surfaced close to the ground. Over time, the area transitioned from hunting grounds to farmland, and by the early nineteenth century, the property was known as the Waring farm.
Springside also sits within a landscape touched by one of the most important chapters in American history. Galpin Hill, just behind the property, is said to have been part of the network used by freedom seekers traveling the Underground Railroad. Local legend holds that Harriet Tubman, an escaped slave and prominent leader of the Underground Railroad, hid runaway slaves in the wooded thickets surrounding Springside’s backyard. While some details have become part of local lore, the connection reflects the broader history of Cayuga County and its role in the fight for freedom.
In 1859, Reverend Brown left the area to become a missionary in Japan, and Springside was eventually sold as a private residence. The property passed through several owners before taking on a new identity in 1919, when Englishman Captain John Holland opened the building as a summer resort. By the 1940s, Springside had evolved into a year-round hotel and restaurant, officially becoming Springside Inn.
In 1941, the Miller family purchased the Inn and continued its tradition of hospitality for decades. The property later came under the care of Bill Dove and Barbara (Miller) Dove, who operated the Inn with the help of their daughter, Lois, carrying its traditions forward for another generation.
Then, in May 1999, a new chapter began.
Sean and Beth Lattimore, along with their children, Sydney and Sean Jr., became the newest stewards of Springside Inn. They took on more than a business—they took on the responsibility of preserving a beloved piece of local history while bringing new life and purpose to the property.
For more than 25 years, Sean and Beth have thoughtfully reinvested in the Inn, cared deeply for their guests, and built a reputation grounded in warmth, authenticity, and genuine connection. Under their stewardship, Springside has continued to evolve while remaining true to what has always made it special.
Today, the Inn’s purpose may be different from that of Reverend Brown’s original school, but its heart remains remarkably unchanged. Springside is still a place where people gather, where relationships are formed, where stories unfold, and where memories are made.
Located across the road from the western shore of Owasco Lake, Springside Inn offers a front-row seat to the beauty of one of the Finger Lakes. Owasco—whose name is believed to derive from a Native American word meaning “crossing”—stretches approximately twelve miles through scenic countryside, connecting communities and generations along its shores.
Each chapter of Springside’s history has added something to its legacy. From a boarding school and private residence to a summer resort, hotel, restaurant, and beloved gathering place, the property has continually evolved while preserving the spirit of hospitality at its core.
Today, more than 175 years after its founding, Springside Inn remains a place where history meets celebration—a place where the past is honored, the present is cherished, and life’s most meaningful moments are shared. Springside Inn is not just a building or venue- it’s where memories continue for generations.
About the Finger Lakes Region
Springside Inn is in the center of an area rich in cultural and outdoor activities. Professional theater, dining, shopping, boating, golfing, walking/hiking, Downhill and cross-country skiing, and so much more are only minutes away.
The Finger Lakes Region is mainly known for its wine production. Self-Guided or Limousine-escorted tours of award-winning wineries are available. Make Springside Inn your home base for a rich, yet relaxing vacation.
For more information regarding these and other area attractions, pick-up a free travel guide at our front desk or go to: