Cabin History & Background Information

The Cabin at Chimney Lake was built in the 1970’s, although the property surrounding the cabin has an interesting history dating back to the turn of the century when the Canaan Coal Company began operating the first deep-shaft coal mine in Ohio. It was reported to be 450 feet deep. Many of the original structures still stand, and the cabin derives its name from the 180 foot chimney that remains precariously perched in the valley, like a sentinel to protect the spirits of the mine. The mineshafts have been sealed, but one can still imagine the bustle of the times. The two-story brick building at the beginning of Mine Road was originally the Company Store for the mine community. The miners purchased staples there, mailed their letters, and paid for their goods with mine scrip unique to the Canaan Coal Company. A two-story safe still remains in the old Company Store building. Residents of the valley hopped the train across the road at the long-vanished train station.

In 1995, chef/owner Matt Rapposelli discovered this gem of a community and chose to open his Big Chimney Baking Company here in one of the old industrial buildings. The bakery was renowned internationally for its European style hearth breads and pastries, and drew a large and hungry Saturday crowd. When the cabin became available to purchase up the road in 2001, Matt and Robin jumped at the opportunity, and immediately decided it should be shared with that unique class of people who has come to appreciate the individuality of bed and breakfasts…and educate those yet unaware of the attributes of bed and breakfasts. In 2006, after 11 successful years in business, Matt was offered a wonderful position as Executive Chef at Ohio University. The Big Chimney Baking Company closed its doors the end of April of that year, but Matt and Robin still live above the bakery and do their best to preserve as many of the historic buildings as they are able.