Wanted: Someone to live, free, in a historic house on Lake Coeur d’Alene. Great views. Great location. Great opportunity to go to sleep and wake up in one of the city’s most treasured and protected homes. 

It's not a scam. It’s the real deal, said Adam Rouse, recreation program coordinator for the city of Coeur d’Alene, and a rare opportunity 

“100 percent,” he said 

For the first time in four decades, the Jewett House, built in 1917 by the Rutledge family and donated to the city in 1978 by the Potlatch Corp., needs a live-in caretaker. It sits in the Sanders Beach neighborhood just minutes from downtown. 

The previous caretaker recently retired.

Rouse said they are expecting many applicants for the job that comes with the responsibility of looking after the much-loved four-story structure, which is crowded with character.

The caretaker must assist with weddings, senior activities and other on-site gatherings, wash the exterior of the home, perform basic cleaning and repairs, and maintain supplies and the outside grounds.

“Just like it was your house,” Rouse said. “Normal upkeep.” 

There is no salary, but the perks can't be beat.

The chosen one, or two if a couple, will have most of the second floor, about 1,000 square feet, that is being updated, for private living quarters. Utilities included. You have access to the entire home. One weekend off each month. 

“You only have to pay for cable if you want it,” Rouse said. 

The Jewett House is about 6,000 square feet. It has about six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, living room, dining room, sunroom, laundry room, billiards room, dressing rooms, parlor, kitchen and a front porch view of Lake Coeur d’Alene to die for. You can even entertain guests in a manner that is "conducive to the character of the facility."

“Hard to beat,” Rouse said. 

The city is hoping to have the Jewett House caretaker hired by April so they can settle in and prepare for the busy summer season.

A retired couple would be ideal, but “an ambitious single person might work,” Rouse said. The city is looking for a three-year commitment. 

"Our goal is to cultivate a positive, supportive partnership that contributes to a constructive environment at the Jewett House," wrote Bill Greenwood, Parks and Recreation director.

The deadline to apply is Jan. 9. Send a letter explaining your interest and qualifications, a resume and references. 

Info: www.cdaid.org/parks

    A view of Lake Coeur d'Alene from the Jewett House.
  

    A gate guards the Jewett House entrance.
  

    A plaque offers a brief history of the Jewett House.
  

    A stairway leads to the living quarters for the Jewett House caretaker.
  

    The view from the window of the caretaker's living quarters at the Jewett House.