Applewood Estate
Applewood Estate is a historically significant landmark in Flint, Michigan. It was previously the home of the Charles Stewart Mott family, who were instrumental in the growth of the automotive industry and charity in the Flint region. The 1916-completed estate is a prime example of the Arts and Crafts architectural style and is included in the National Register of Historic Properties. This essay will examine the history of Applewood Estate and its current offerings to visitors.
The Background of the Applewood Estate
In Flint, Michigan, the Mott family name is well-known. Charles Stewart Mott, the family patriarch, was a renowned businessman and philanthropist. He was one of the founders of General Motors and was instrumental in the growth of the automotive industry. The Mott family was also well-known for their philanthropic efforts in the Flint region, particularly in the fields of education and healthcare.
Charles Stewart Mott commissioned the renowned architect Edwin Lutyens to create a new residence for his family in 1913. The English architect Lutyens was renowned for his work in the Arts and Crafts style. He constructed a residence that combined traditional English architecture with American aesthetics. The home was finished in 1916 and given the name Applewood Estate due to the abundance of apple trees on the land.
The Mott family inhabited the residence for over fifty years. During this time, they hosted a number of distinguished guests, including Eleanor Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy. Nevertheless, the family continued its philanthropic efforts, providing funds and resources to numerous projects in the Flint region.
In 1989, the Mott family gave the house and property to the Ruth Mott Foundation, a non-profit organization that promotes education and community development in Flint. In 2010, the foundation refurbished the house and reopened it as a museum.
Attractions at Applewood Estate
Architecture, history, and philanthropy enthusiasts should visit Applewood Estate. Guests can enjoy a guided tour of the house and gardens, which includes the Mott family’s original furnishings and artwork. The house exemplifies the Arts and Crafts architectural style with its basic lines, handcrafted embellishments, and emphasis on natural materials. Several objects from the Mott family’s life are also on display, including Charles Stewart Mott’s desk and library, Ruth Mott’s needlepoint, and the family’s excellent china collection.
Applewood Estate’s gardens and grounds are well worth exploring. The 34-acre property features formal gardens, orchards, and woodland areas. Ellen Shipman, a renowned landscape architect of the early 20th century, developed the gardens. Visitors can view the original plans for the gardens and tour the various regions, including the rose garden, peony garden, and Japanese garden, among others.
During the year, Applewood Estate offers numerous educational programs and events. These programs aim to promote education and community development in the region of Flint. The programs include gardening seminars, cooking classes, and educational programs for youngsters. The estate also holds other special events throughout the year, such as a holiday open house, summer concerts, and a harvest festival in the autumn.
Why You Ought to Go to Applewood Estate
Applewood Estate is a fantastic place to learn about the history of Flint, Michigan, and the Mott family’s contribution to the area’s development. Visitors can view numerous original furnishings and works of art from the Mott family’s collection. The estate’s gardens and grounds are equally worthy of exploration, and visitors may view Ellen Shipman’s original designs for the gardens.
Yet probably the most significant reason to visit Applewood Estate is to support the Ruth Mott Foundation’s efforts. The foundation’s mission is to advance education and community development in Flint, Michigan, and the surrounding area. By participating in the estate’s educational programs and events, visitors may contribute to the foundation’s efforts and have a good impact on the neighborhood.
Also, Applewood Estate is a family-friendly site. Children will appreciate visiting the estate’s gardens and grounds, engaging in educational events, and learning about the Mott family and the evolution of the automobile.
Applewood Estate is a one-of-a-kind and intriguing place that has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or philanthropy, the estate near Flint, Michigan is a must-see. Hence, if you are planning a trip to the region, you should include Applewood Estate in your itinerary.