Frontier House

Building Summary:

Built in 1824 by Joshua Fairbanks, the Frontier House first opened its doors as an inn for travelers during Lewiston’s transformation from a frontier outpost into a thriving village. Over the years, it became one of Western New York’s most recognized historic buildings, earning a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

After years of vacancy, Ellicott Development Company purchased the Frontier House in 2019 with a vision to restore its historic character and reintroduce it as a vibrant anchor on Lewiston’s Center Street. The restoration, completed in Summer 2025, blends meticulous preservation with modern functionality.
Today, the building features Fairbanks, an elevated dining experience on the basement and first floors, offering regionally inspired cuisine alongside a curated selection of wine, beer, and cocktails—named in honor of the original builder. The upper floors accommodate a mix of short-term vacation rentals and market-rate apartments, creating a lively blend of hospitality and residential use.

The rehabilitation respected the Frontier House’s 200-year-old craftsmanship—restoring original plasterwork, hardwood floors, trim, and faithfully replicating the center staircase. Historic exterior work included repointing and partial reconstruction of the stone façade, installing period-appropriate windows, doors, and roof railings, removing non-historic shutters, and rebuilding the rear porch. Even the signage was recreated to match the building’s original early 1800s design.

From its storied beginnings to its remarkable renewal, the Frontier House once again stands as a centerpiece of Lewiston’s history and culture—welcoming guests, residents, and visitors just as it did two centuries ago.

Apartments coming soon! Check out these nearby units at 780 Center St.

Website
Airbnbs

Building Size:

• 4-stories, 13,061 gsf