History of Lake Ripley Lodge
The Lodge was built during the early 1900s by the family of Charles Dawes who was a former Vice President of the U.S. A frequent visitor to the family cottage, Dawes won the Nobel prize for his plan which brought an end to World War I. He served as Vice President under Calvin Coolidge. When he wasn't serving his country, he was a successful businessman and songwriter. He published more than a dozen songs, the most famous of which is, "Many a Tear Has to Fall" (It's All In The Game)
Dawes and his family enjoyed the view from the wrap-around screened porch just as today's guests do. It is easy to imagine Dawes talking to local residents Ole Evinrude and Arthur Davidson. Evinrude could have worked on his invention, the outboard motor, while Davidson may have tried to convince Evinrude that he and his partner William Harley believed the best use for that engine was powering a motorcycle.
The Lake Ripley Lodge is the last of the great lodges on history-rich Lake Ripley. Formerly MAPLE VILLA in the 1940's and 50's, it was known as the happiest and liveliest place on Lake Ripley. Mrs. Schmidt and her six daughters served 3 meals a day to guests and held weddings and parties on the Grand Porch.
The Lodge construction used local cedar for the floors and maple, pine, and alder for the frame. The cedar floors remain to remind visitors of a bygone era. The exterior is similar to the original with a commanding view of the lake and more than 1000 feet of wrap-around screened porch. The architectural style is similar to those built by Henry Ford and Thomas Edison, including a wide screened veranda, multiple French doors opening to the screened area and plentiful windows to let in the cool summer breeze and take in the view.
Today’s lodge has updated wiring, and plumbing and has central air conditioning. Enjoy WI-Fi throughout.
