The Saugatuck-Douglas History Center wrapped up its second season On Location on May 8th. The subscription-based series invites attendees to explore history at remarkable places across the Lakeshore area. With over 35 in attendance, members gathered on a beautiful spring evening at the final location of the series, the Peachbelt Studio and Gallery in Fennville. From the beauty of the historic landscape setting to the warm and welcoming hospitality of Dawn Stafford– owner of the schoolhouse-, members were given a glimpse into the history of the location while standing on the land where students once played baseball and attended school in the one-roomed school house (built 1867) for nearly a century.
The series began in March at The Butler Pantry, the historical site of the once Koning (and later Wilkins) Hardware Store built in 1904. Owners Stephanie and Kevin Burt offered an assortment of wine and cheese for tasting from their store, which sells gourmet foods and quality kitchenware. Members enjoyed a taste of the Pantry’s offerings while learning about the historic 121-year-old building.
Next up was a trip to the Forest Inn, hosted by owners Tracy and Eric Lanning. Before it was purchased and restored in 2023, this Victorian-style home with Craftsman influences was built in 1904 by George Kurz. Also built by Kutz is the Kirby House (1890), which still stands on Blue Star and Center Street. Just a short walk from the shores of Lake Michigan, this location is rich with history and a quiet escape from everyday life in the 2020s.
The program traveled next to the Bekken Blacksmith Shop located on Washington Street in Douglas. This history begins in 1890 when blacksmithing began on the site and in 1917 the building opened as H.M Bekken Horseshoeing & General Repairing. The two-story brick building is still owned by family descendants today, and the site is now a rental property that continues to preserve the history of the building and honors Herman Bekken’s craftsmanship. The hearth in the open living room is a tangible reminder of the labor at the heart of the building’s place in village history.
The Harvey and Jessica House farmstead was the fourth stop in the On Location series. The Greek Revival style home and farmstead was built by New England carpenter Hugh Graham in 1868.. Harvey’s son, Edwin, received his education in Oak Park, Illinois, and achieved great success in horticulture and business. He was best known for producing the popular House Cherry Mix drink of the early 20th century. In 2021, the historic property was purchased and restored by Scott and Rebekah Wierenga.
We would like to extend a special thank you to the participating historic sites of this edition of On Location and their amazing owners who made this series possible:
The Butler Pantry – Stephanie and Kevin Burt
Forest Inn – Tracy and Eric Lanning
Bekken Blacksmith Shop – David and Cathy Bekken & Joseph and Terri Bekken as well as Jaqua Realtors Vacation Places
House Homestead – Scott and Rebekah Wieringa
Peachbelt Studio and Gallery – Dawn Stafford
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more information regarding upcoming events and the next On Location series coming soon!
View our gallery of images below.
