Dowagiac, MI - May 8, 2024 - The Greater Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce is delighted to announce the highly anticipated return of the Dowagiac Home & Garden Tour, scheduled for June 22, 2024. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., attendees will have the opportunity to explore six of Dowagiac's most historic and picturesque properties, showcasing the architectural variety and historic charm of the region.
This year's tour promises to be an interesting and fun event, featuring a curated selection of homes steeped in history and elegance. The home featured on this year’s official poster is an exquisite 1874 Italianate residence owned by Carlos and Dana Sandoval, located on Center Street. With its breathtaking original architectural details and beautiful grounds, this home sets the stage for a memorable tour experience.
Attendees will also be able to tour the renowned Lee Mansion, known as "The Rockery," nestled on High Street and surrounded by a three-foot stone fence. Built in 1893 for Fred and Kate Lee of the Round Oak Stove Company, this Romanesque masterpiece, now owned by Michael West, exudes timeless grandeur.
A second home on the tour intertwined with the Round Oak legacy is a stunning Queen Anne/Foursquare with Prairie School influences on Main Street. Originally built in 1903 for Charles and Ida Hubbard, this stately residence was once the home of Dickinson H. Bishop and his wife Mary Beckwith Lee Bishop, the daughter of Fred and Kate Lee. Presently owned by Jane Phillipson on a lovely corner lot, the interior is a marvelous look into the past.
Outside of town is William and Katrina Crawford's 1854 Greek Revival on Indian Lake Road. The Crawfords have invested years lovingly restoring this historic farmhouse, known as the Cullinane House, which has deep roots in the community.
Local restaurateur Kyle Belew is offering a rare glimpse into the past by opening up the famed ballroom on the third floor of the Dowagiac Elks Temple, currently the Wounded Minnow Saloon. Few people have been privy to this long-lost space over the last 30 years, and when renovations begin later this year to convert the upper floors to luxury apartments, the history will be gone forever.
As promised, the Beckwith House on Oak Street, which is the third on the tour with Round Oak connections, will once again be on the tour. This 1887 Eastlake Stick Style, owned by Chris Hilton, has been undergoing a monumental restoration by local historian Corey Crocker. Crocker will be on-site to update visitors on the progress and plans for the coming year.
Advance ticket sales for the Dowagiac Home & Garden Tour will commence on May 8, available online via the chamber website, under Events, and in person at Imperial Furniture, 57530 M-51 South and at Cottage Gallery, 126 S. Front St., Dowagiac. Advance tickets are priced at $15, with day-of-tour tickets available for $20. The tour will kick off at the Dowagiac History Museum, where patrons can collect their wristbands and receive information on each location.
Stay updated on tour announcements by following the Greater Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce's Facebook page and the Homes of Dowagiac page, dedicated to celebrating Dowagiac's architectural treasures.
The tour committee is chaired by Eileen Crouse and includes Alicea Rodriguez Cole, Allexia Money, Dana Sandoval, Jessica Shank, Zena Burns, and Ruth Ausra. Local historians Corey Crocker and Pamela Oliverez are providing research and background information on the homes.
Volunteers are still needed to serve as docents during the tour, guiding visitors through the homes and ensuring a memorable experience for all. Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to reach out to Jessica Shank at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
The 2024 Dowagiac Home & Garden Tour is generously underwritten by Matt and Ale Money of D. MottL Realty Group and Cari Adams of Chicago Title of Michigan, Niles/Dowagiac and the generous team at Imperial Furniture, reflecting the community's steadfast commitment to preserving its heritage.
