A central section is flanked by cross-gabled wings, with large westward projection that houses a great living room with a tall ceiling.

Creation of the forest began in 1916, when Henry Sabin Chase purchased 16 acres (6.5 ha) at the summit of the hill.

The house was designed by New York City architect Richard Henry Dana (1879-1933), grandson of Richard Henry Dana Jr.[6] Miss Chase occupied the property as a summer residence, and operated much of the surrounding property, which she purchased in stages, as a farm.

[4] She bequeathed the property, then over 500 acres (200 ha) to the State Forest Commission of Connecticut upon her death in 1972, along with an endowment for its maintenance.

The house is open for tours seasonally and operated today by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.