A mansion... in Holland? Of course, this isn’t news to us—we’re used to catching glimpses of fetching million-dollar homes that occupy our lakeshore. Many of these impressive builds are placed within view, designed to dazzle the passerby. But behind the many, many windows and modern grandeur, there seems to be an absence of something deeper. Where’s the rich tale behind the build? The seemingly far-fetched, intriguing history? Long story short: it was probably built within the last decade by a local construction company. So that’s it?
I’d say, if you take a short fifteen-minute drive to the south, you may stumble across something a bit more heartfelt.
Nestled in the sand dunes between Holland and Saugatuck sits the humble, historic estate of Felt Mansion. The mansion rests quietly among perfectly manicured greenspaces and a unique entry fountain, with the calming backdrop of Lake Michigan.
And then, of course… the home itself.
This Georgian-Revival style residence, completed in 1928, features twenty-five distinct rooms, each adorned with intricate mahogany woodwork, a sprawling library filled with original books, and timeless era-esque furnishings.
It feels as if you stepped right back into the Roaring 20s.
An enduring tribute to love
But beyond the craftsmanship lies something more poignant: the mansion was built as a grand gesture of devotion. Dorr E. Felt, a wealthy inventor known for creating the first commercially successful key-driven mechanical calculator—the Comptometer—commissioned the estate as a loving gift for his wife, Agnes.
Tragically, Agnes passed away just six weeks after the home was completed. Though her time in the mansion was brief, the walls still seem to echo with Felt’s love and loss, making the estate feel less like a museum and more like a love letter exhibited in brick and mortar.
Since then, the mansion has lived many lives—from a Catholic preparatory school to a prison work camp to a police office space.
It welcomed personalities of every kind—nuns, students, and even Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV. By the late 1990s, the mansion—much like a heart long weathered—had fallen into disrepair. Its gardens became overgrown, its brick turned ashy from the harsh lakeshore weather.
But love returned once more. When Pat Hoezee Meyer and her husband were hiking along the lakeshore, they stumbled upon the fleeting mansion. Shortly thereafter, a passionate, community-led restoration began. Today, the Felt Estate flourishes again.
A place to capture tales of love
The estate has since been a sought destination for historic tours, weddings, and events. Though, most notably, newly engaged couples—drawn by the estate’s story of enduring love—are choosing the mansion as the stage for their own tale of love. Here, surrounded by history and beauty, they celebrate not just their future, but also a legacy built on love.
Avery Phillips, a West Michigan-based photographer, suggests that Felt Mansion’s classy and traditional setting has lent to it becoming one of “the” spots for romantic photography. In her words, the estate “has so many great backgrounds on the property, it’s one of my favorites for that reason. You can incorporate a lot of different prompts and poses when locations are this gorg[eous].” The eclectic entry fountain is one of her favorite elements on the estate.
Another West Michigan photographer, Morgan Linnae, was gracious enough to offer her insight into why this mansion has become a top choice for couples to showcase their tales of love. As one of her favorite places to draw clients to, she notes how the very location itself is a captive element for couples. In her words, “The beauty of the mansion, along with the fountain, chapel, fences, and rolling hills appeal to so many clients! It offers two completely different aesthetics in just one spot.” She notes that having the lakeshore so close by is also a key attraction. She concluded, “Whether it’s a wedding, couple, [graduating] senior, or family, every session I’ve had at the estate never disappoints!”
A hidden gem… not so hidden anymore
As more and more couples search for meaningful ways to tell their tale of love, the Felt Mansion offers something far beyond the ordinary.
With its rich history, sweeping grounds, and timeless architecture, it’s no wonder photographers and couples alike are drawn to its charm.
Whether it’s golden light filtering through the white-lined windows or the quiet romance of a lakeshore breeze, the estate provides the perfect setting to frame... forever. And to begin a new chapter, surrounded by the beauty of the enduring love it was built upon.
Looking to book your event at the estate? Visit the Felt Mansion's website for more info.
Looking for a photographer to capture your love story? Visit Avery Phillips and Morgan Linnae Photography.
Photo credits: First two photos courtesy of the Felt Mansion website. Last two photos courtesy of Morgan Linnae Photography.
Sierra Ozolins is a West Michigan native, currently a student at Hope College. As an athlete, she is passionate about fitness—from running to weightlifting. With a interest for politics and lifestyle, she is intrigued how local culture, community, and everyday events shape the world around her—often with an iced coffee in hand and her dog by her side.
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