The Legacy of Stone Manor: Unveiling the History of Lake Geneva's Iconic Estate

by Kim & Joel Reyenga

The Legacy of Stone Manor: Unveiling the History of Lake Geneva's Iconic Estate

Perched majestically on the south shore of Geneva Lake, Stone Manor stands as a testament to the opulence and grandeur of a bygone era. Originally named Younglands, this historic mansion has been a focal point of fascination and admiration for over a century.

As local real estate experts with eXp Realty, Kim & Joel Reyenga at YourWiscoHome.com are honored to delve into the captivating history of this architectural masterpiece, shedding light on its origins, transformations, and enduring legacy.

Origins: The Vision of Otto Young

The story of Stone Manor begins with Otto Young, a German immigrant who arrived in America with modest means. Born into an affluent family in Germany, Young faced financial hardships upon his arrival in New York City in the mid-1800s.

Undeterred, he embarked on a journey of entrepreneurship, starting by selling costume jewelry from a pushcart on the bustling streets of the city. His keen business acumen led him to Chicago, where he seized opportunities in real estate, particularly in the area now known as The Loop, following the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Through strategic investments, Young amassed a considerable fortune, estimated to be over $25 million at the time of his passing in 1906.

In 1899, seeking a summer retreat that reflected his success, Young commissioned the construction of an Italianate-style mansion on the south shore of Geneva Lake. Designed by architect Henry Lord Gay, the estate was named Younglands. What began as a project with a $15,000 budget soon evolved into an ambitious endeavor, culminating in a final expenditure of nearly $2 million—a staggering sum for that era.

Architectural Grandeur: A Testament to Elegance

Completed in 1901, Younglands was a marvel of architectural and engineering prowess. The seven-level mansion included two sub-basements and a sprawling roof terrace. The lower basement ingeniously utilized large ice blocks harvested from the lake during winter, providing a rudimentary form of air conditioning during the summer months.

Interior Details of the Estate:

First Floor: Featured 14-karat gold-plated doorknobs, plumbing, and electrical fixtures. The grand dining room could accommodate over 100 guests.
Second Floor: Contained nine spacious bedrooms, each with connecting sitting rooms and private baths.
Third Floor: Housed seven guest rooms and seven servant quarters, thoughtfully segregated for privacy.
Fourth Floor: Featured a gymnasium and a nine-hole miniature golf course.

The mansion's stone exterior exuded a timeless elegance that has allowed it to remain a landmark on Geneva Lake’s shoreline for over a century.

Transitions Through Time: From Private Estate to Condominiums

Following Otto Young’s death in 1906, the estate remained within the family until the mid-20th century. In 1950, the property underwent a significant transformation, being converted into a luxury hotel. This period marked the beginning of a series of transitions, as the mansion adapted to the evolving needs of the community and the times.

By the 1970s, the mansion—now commonly referred to as Stone Manor—faced an uncertain future. It changed hands multiple times, serving various purposes, including as a restaurant renowned for fine French cuisine. Despite these changes, the mansion’s architectural integrity remained largely intact.

In the early 1990s, a significant restoration project was undertaken by developer Tom Ricci, who reimagined Stone Manor as a luxury condominium complex. The mansion was meticulously divided into six upscale units, each offering residents a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. This adaptive reuse not only preserved the mansion’s historical significance but also revitalized it as a vibrant residential community.

Stone Manor Today: A Blend of History and Modernity

Today, Stone Manor stands as a harmonious blend of past and present. The exterior retains its historic grandeur, while the interior spaces have been updated to meet modern standards of comfort and elegance.

Residents enjoy breathtaking views of Geneva Lake and convenient access to downtown Lake Geneva’s shopping, dining, and recreational activities. The mansion remains a coveted address for those seeking luxury lakefront living in a historic setting.

Luxury Living in Lake Geneva: Your Real Estate Experts

The transformation of Stone Manor from a private estate to luxury condominiums is a perfect example of Lake Geneva’s ability to preserve its historic past while embracing modern living.

If you’re interested in learning more about historic properties, luxury lakefront homes, or investment opportunities in Lake Geneva, Kim & Joel Reyenga are here to help.

With years of experience in the local real estate market, they provide expert guidance for buyers and sellers looking to navigate Lake Geneva’s unique real estate landscape.

Contact Kim & Joel Reyenga – Your Lake Geneva Real Estate Experts

Looking to buy or sell real estate in Lake Geneva or Walworth County? Whether you are searching for a historic lakefront home, a luxury estate, or an investment property, Kim & Joel Reyenga of eXp Realty are ready to assist you.