The
Victorian Inn Bed and Breakfast in Saugatuck is a classic specimen of a Sears,
Roebuck & Co. mail-order “Honor Built Home” – an historic old house that
deserves to be shared.
Between
1908-1940 Sears helped 70,000 U.S. homeowners build their dream homes through
Sears mail-order “Modern Homes Program”, which provided quality custom design
and favorable financing for many first home buyers. The catalogue of homes offered 447 styles and
three grades of quality from which to choose.
Prospective buyers could then modify or submit their own blueprints to
Sears who would then ship off the pre-cut fitted material via rail. Entire
homes would arrive by train, including pre-cut lumber, carved staircases and
oak paneling-- right down to the nails and varnish. Homeowners had to assemble
their own homes – somewhat like IKEA but
on a much grander scale! Sears Modern Homes Program made an indelible mark on
the history of modern housing but collapsed as a casualty of the Great
Depression – ironically because of its home mortgage programs.
The
Victorian Inn Bed & Breakfast was among the top-grade homes sold by Sears
as evidenced by the fine woodwork, trim, paneling and quality custom details
throughout the house. The Inn has seven guest rooms all individually designed
and furnished in period antiques, complimentary fabrics and art prints
custom-framed by the Innkeeper himself.
Some bedrooms have king-size beds, fireplaces and Jacuzzis. All rooms have air conditioning, TVs, and
WIFI – modern amenities that do not detract from the historic elements of the
home.
There
is a relaxed style that works for both the gregarious hosts and the guests, who
are often invited to pull up a chair and chat while the hosts cook breakfast.
Tasteful home-cooked full breakfasts are served “House Party” style in the Inns
expansive sunny kitchen, often prompting energetic and jovial conversation
among guests.
The
Inn has a long neighborly wrap-around front porch that runs the length of the
front of the Inn. It is furnished with
wicker rockers, couches and arm chairs, and offers a perfect vantage point for
watching passers-by while enjoying a glass of wine.
This
is a relaxed atmosphere close to everything in downtown Saugatuck.
