E.J. built the buildings with wood from the property. With two of his brothers, he also built many of the early camps on the lake.He and his wife Hattie soon established a reputation for good food and hospitality. They took the time to know their guests personally and many became lifelong friends who returned year after year. Descendants of E.J. and Hattie's still welcome people whose ancestors were some of the early guests, some families coming for five generations. The Waldheim is still a place where each guest is a friend.

The Waldheim was established in 1904 by E.J. Martin who came to the area seeking work during the heyday of Adirondack resorts.