1949 - 1980 - Island House Hotel

Photo of Mackinac Island and the Island House Hotel (38K)

1949 - 1980
Hoping to restore the property, a group of investors formed the Island House Incorporated in 1949. Despite the best attempts of various stockholders, by 1969 the Island Househad deteriorated so greatly that the Chairman of the Mackinac Island State Park, W.F. Doyle, believed it would need to be torn down. It was not until 1972 that the Island House would return to its early popularity. Three of Mackinac Island's most familiar businessmen, Harry Ryba, son James, and son-in-law Victor Callewaert, recognized the Island House's status as a Michigan landmark.

They purchased the lease to the hotel and vowed to return The Island House to its original grandeur. Throughout its incredible restoration every step was taken to preserve the striking architectural features of the hotel exterior, including its many columns, porch spindles, gables, windows, and door styles. During this two year project the Island House was closed to the general public, but reopened with a spirited celebration on June 23, 1972. The final triumph came on August 11, 1973 when the hotel was acknowledged with the State of Michigan as a Michigan Historical Landmark.

For more Island House History 1852 - 1949~1980 - Present

Reservations:	Phone:	Fax:	Tours:
(800)626-6304	(906)847-3347	(906)847-3819	(800)399-0403

Reservations:

Phone:

Fax:

Tours:

(800)626-6304

(906)847-3347

(906)847-3819

(800)399-0403

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