The Vernor Estate: Lapeer's Hidden Gem
Many Lapeer residents cherish Vernors Ginger Ale as a Michigan staple, but fewer might be aware of the deep-rooted connection between the Vernor family and our own community. Nestled in Arcadia Township, the Vernor Estate once stood as a testament to the family's legacy, blending the charm of Lapeer's natural beauty with the prominence of Detroit's famed ginger ale creators.
Establishing the Estate
In the late 1920s, James Vernor II, son of the original creator of Vernors Ginger Ale, sought a retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Detroit. His search led him to Lapeer County, where he acquired a sprawling 3,351-acre property encompassing Long Lake and several smaller lakes. This vast expanse, known as the Arcadia Ridge Farm, became the Vernor Estate, serving as a sanctuary for breeding thoroughbred horses and hosting esteemed guests.
Eagle Nook Lodge: The Heart of the Estate
At the heart of the estate stood the magnificent Eagle Nook Lodge, a rustic retreat constructed from natural stone and rough-sawn lumber. The lodge boasted eight bedrooms, four bathrooms, three wood-burning stoves, and five expansive eight-foot-wide fireplaces. Its design harmoniously blended with the surrounding landscape, offering panoramic views of Long Lake and the dense Michigan woodlands.
A Hub for Recreation and Hospitality
The estate wasn't merely a private retreat; it was a hub of activity and hospitality. Vernor and his guests indulged in hunting expeditions, fishing in the pristine waters of Long Lake, and equestrian pursuits on the estate's grounds. The lodge's caretakers, Odus Williams and his wife, ensured that guests experienced genuine hospitality, often preparing freshly hunted pheasants for dinner.
Tragic Loss and Transformation
The grandeur of the Vernor Estate faced an untimely end on January 26, 1943, when a devastating fire engulfed Eagle Nook Lodge, tragically claiming the life of caretaker Odus Williams. The lodge was never rebuilt, and the once-vibrant estate gradually receded into the annals of history. In 1956, two years after James Vernor II's passing, the state acquired the property, integrating it into the Lapeer State Game Area.
Legacy Amidst Nature
Today, the legacy of the Vernor Estate subtly lingers amidst the natural beauty of the Lapeer State Game Area. Visitors can still encounter remnants of the estate, such as stone walls and the crumbling spring house, standing as silent witnesses to a bygone era. Long Lake, once the centerpiece of the estate, now serves as a protected body of water, offering fishing opportunities during specific seasons and attracting anglers from across the region.
Preserving Local Heritage
While the physical structures of the Vernor Estate may have faded, its story remains an integral thread in the rich tapestry of Lapeer's history. The estate exemplifies the blend of local heritage with broader narratives, connecting our community to the legacy of a beverage that has quenched the thirst of generations. As we sip on a cold Vernors Ginger Ale, we can reflect on this shared history and the enduring bond between the Vernor family and Lapeer.
For those interested in exploring this chapter of local history further, the Lapeer State Game Area offers a serene environment to ponder the past, where nature and history intertwine, preserving the memory of the Vernor Estate amidst Michigan's wild beauty.
Sources: The history of the Vernor Estate in Lapeer is detailed in several sources, including *The County Press*, which covers personal accounts, the estate's transformation into the Lapeer State Game Area, and its lasting legacy. Additional insights come from *Detroit Historical Society* on Vernors' origins, *Nailhed* and *Lost In Michigan* blogs exploring the estate’s remnants, and a *Michigan DNR* report on Long Lake’s environmental significance. These sources help preserve the rich history of the Vernor family’s connection to Lapeer.