Henderson Castle | Kalamazoo

Henderson Castle is a remarkable historic mansion located in Kalamazoo, Michigan, exemplifying the grandeur and architectural elegance of the late 19th century. Completed in 1895, this magnificent estate was originally built for Frank Henderson, a prominent local industrialist who was heavily involved in the brewing and malting industry, and his wife Mary. The castle stands atop West Main Hill, commanding scenic views and a prestigious position within the city.

The architectural design of Henderson Castle is rooted firmly in the Queen Anne style, a popular and elaborate Victorian-era aesthetic known for its asymmetry, eclectic use of materials, and ornamental detailing. The architect behind this masterpiece was C.A. Gombert of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, who incorporated a striking blend of Lake Superior sandstone and brick in the exterior walls, imparting both durability and visual appeal. The exterior is notable for its complex rooflines, a turret that crowns one corner of the building, ornate chimneys, and intricate masonry work that contribute to its fairy-tale castle-like appearance.

Inside, Henderson Castle showcases an extraordinary level of craftsmanship and luxury. The interior spaces feature an impressive variety of rare and high-quality woods, including mahogany, bird’s eye maple, quartered oak, birch, and American sycamore. These woods are used for wall paneling, flooring, cabinetry, and trim, reflecting the opulence expected of a mansion built for one of Kalamazoo’s wealthiest families. The original furnishings and woodwork have been preserved or restored to maintain the authenticity of the period.

The mansion was equipped with state-of-the-art amenities for its time, a testament to the Henderson family’s wealth and modern outlook. It includes seven bathrooms, which was extraordinary in the late 1800s, one of which features a thirteen-head shower, illustrating the innovative plumbing design. The presence of an elevator, another rarity for residential buildings at that time, highlights the emphasis on comfort and accessibility within the castle. The home also boasts a grand third-floor ballroom, which served as a social hub for lavish gatherings, dances, and community events, complete with elegant decorative details and spacious proportions.

Over the years, Henderson Castle’s ownership changed hands several times, and its uses evolved. After Frank Henderson’s death in 1899, the mansion was no longer a private family home. At one point in the 1950s, the castle was considered as a possible site for the Kalamazoo Art Center, demonstrating the community’s recognition of its cultural and historical value. The property also became associated with Kalamazoo College for a period, before dedicated restoration efforts began in earnest.

In the 1970s, Dr. Jess Walker spearheaded the initial restoration to preserve the castle’s architectural integrity. Later, in 1981, Frederick Royce took over the restoration work, continuing the painstaking efforts to bring the mansion back to its former glory. These restorations involved structural repairs, refurbishing original woodwork, restoring the sandstone façade, and upgrading utilities to meet modern codes while preserving historical authenticity.

The modern chapter of Henderson Castle began in 2005 when Laura and Peter Livingstone-McNelis transformed it into a boutique bed and breakfast. This adaptive reuse allowed visitors and guests to experience the splendor of the castle firsthand. The mansion was carefully updated to include modern comforts without compromising its historic charm, allowing overnight guests to stay in exquisitely themed rooms named to reflect the castle’s heritage, such as the King’s Tower, Queen’s Tower, Italian Suite, and Victorian Room.

In 2011, renowned French chef François Moyet acquired the property and introduced new culinary and hospitality experiences. Moyet opened the h CHOPHOUSE, a fine French dining restaurant housed within the castle that offers guests gourmet cuisine in an elegant, historically rich setting. Complementing the dining experience, Mary Henderson’s Spa was established on-site, providing a luxurious wellness retreat that blends historic ambiance with modern spa services.

Today, Henderson Castle is much more than just a bed and breakfast; it is a cultural and community hub. The castle offers an array of amenities and special events. Guests and visitors can enjoy wine tastings in the Wine Cave, relax in the rooftop hot tub that offers stunning views over Kalamazoo, and partake in spa treatments that emphasize relaxation and rejuvenation. The castle also hosts a variety of themed experiences such as the Queen’s Tea Service—an elegant afternoon tea event reflecting Victorian traditions—Sunday brunches, princess-themed tea parties for children, and interactive Murder Mystery Dinners that combine dining with theatrical entertainment.

Henderson Castle stands as a living museum of Kalamazoo’s history, architecture, and culture. It represents the ambitions and lifestyle of a bygone era while serving contemporary functions that engage locals and visitors alike. Its preservation and adaptive reuse have ensured that it remains a vibrant landmark in the city.

As of early 2024, Henderson Castle was placed on the market with an asking price of approximately $5 million. This sale represents a rare opportunity for ownership of one of Michigan’s architectural jewels, offering potential buyers a chance to continue its legacy as a historic estate, hospitality venue, or private residence. The castle’s enduring beauty, historic significance, and unique combination of luxury and community presence make it a truly exceptional property.