Ownership of Wrigley Mansion Lake Geneva: Who Owns It?
The Wrigley Mansion in Lake Geneva holds a significant place as a historic waterfront estate that was once owned by the prominent Wrigley family. This article explores the ownership of the Wrigley Mansion and provides a comprehensive overview of its historical significance and notable features.
The Wrigley Family and the Wrigley Estate
The Wrigley family, known for their prominence and success, owned the Wrigley Estate in Lake Geneva. The estate consisted of a collection of six properties that boasted the most lake frontage on Lake Geneva. Under the leadership of William and P.K. Wrigley, the family amassed one of the most famous fortunes in the country. P.K. Wrigley’s wealth included the Wrigley Chewing Gum Company, the Chicago Cubs, Wrigley Field, the Wrigley Building in downtown Chicago, substantial real estate holdings in downtown Phoenix, Arizona, and a significant portion of Catalina Island off the coast of Southern California.
Hillcroft: The Original Wrigley Mansion
Hillcroft, the original mansion acquired by Philip K. Wrigley in 1927, played a central role in the Wrigley Estate. Initially serving as P.K. Wrigley’s summer residence, Hillcroft later became a guesthouse. However, in 1984, the historic main building of Hillcroft was demolished and replaced with a new 11,000-square-foot home. This new structure features five bedrooms, seven-and-a-half bathrooms, a vaulted living room, a four-season sunroom, and a lower-level recreation room. While the original mansion is no longer standing, the estate’s gatehouse and carriage house were retained.
Notable Features of the Wrigley Estate
The Wrigley Estate is renowned for its extensive lake frontage, with Hillcroft alone boasting an impressive 415-foot water frontage. In addition to Hillcroft, the Wrigley Estate includes other notable properties such as Northwoodside, Green Gables, Wychwood, and the boathouses. Each property contributes to the overall grandeur and charm of the estate, with unique architectural features and stunning views of Lake Geneva.
The Wrigley Boathouses
Part of the original Green Gables estate, the Wrigley boathouses are an integral part of the Wrigley Estate. These boathouses, located on the lakefront, house famous Lake Geneva boats that have become symbols of the area’s rich maritime history. They serve as a testament to the Wrigley family’s appreciation for the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Lake Geneva offers.
Current Ownership
The Wrigley Estate properties are currently owned by extended members of the Wrigley family. While the Wrigley Mansion, Hillcroft, recently set a new record for single-family homes in Lake Geneva and the entire state of Wisconsin, selling for $11.25 million, the other properties within the estate remain in the possession of the family. The continued ownership by the Wrigley family underscores their enduring connection to the Lake Geneva area and their commitment to preserving the legacy of the Wrigley Estate.
Conclusion
The Wrigley Mansion in Lake Geneva holds a prominent place as a historic and grand waterfront estate. Owned by the illustrious Wrigley family, the mansion and its surrounding properties are a testament to the family’s success and their appreciation for the natural beauty of Lake Geneva. The recent sale of Hillcroft and its record-breaking price highlight the continued allure and desirability of the Wrigley Mansion. As the Wrigley Estate remains under the ownership of the Wrigley family, its rich history and remarkable features will continue to captivate and inspire future generations.
Sources:
- “Former Wrigley family estate in Lake Geneva sells for a record-setting $11.25M” – Curbed Chicago (https://chicago.curbed.com/2018/3/23/17153212/sold-lake-geneva-wrigley-mansion-hillcroft)
- “Wrigley Estates | Lakefront Lake Geneva Real Estate” – Lake Geneva Estates (https://lakegenevaestates.com/top-10-mansions-2/wrigley-estate/)
- “Hillcroft’s Undivided History” – At The Lake Magazine (https://atthelakemagazine.com/hillcroft-undivided-history/)
FAQs
Who originally owned the Wrigley Mansion in Lake Geneva?
The Wrigley Mansion in Lake Geneva was originally owned by Philip K. Wrigley, a prominent member of the Wrigley family and the former owner of the Wrigley Chewing Gum Company.
Is the Wrigley Mansion still owned by the Wrigley family?
Yes, the Wrigley Mansion in Lake Geneva is still owned by extended members of the Wrigley family.
Has the Wrigley Mansion ever been sold?
Yes, the Wrigley Mansion has been sold in the past. One notable sale occurred in 2018 when Hillcroft, a property within the Wrigley Estate, was sold for a record-setting price of $11.25 million.
What is the historical significance of the Wrigley Mansion?
The Wrigley Mansion holds historical significance as a waterfront estate that was once owned by the prominent Wrigley family, known for their success in the chewing gum industry and their ownership of the Chicago Cubs baseball team.
Are there other properties included in the Wrigley Estate?
Yes, the Wrigley Estate consists of multiple properties, including Hillcroft, Northwoodside, Green Gables, Wychwood, and the boathouses, all of which contribute to the grandeur and charm of the estate.
What is the current state of the Wrigley Mansion?
The original Wrigley Mansion, known as Hillcroft, was demolished in 1984 and replaced with a new 11,000-square-foot home. The other properties within the Wrigley Estate remain intact and are still owned by the Wrigley family.
What is the notable feature of the Wrigley Estate?
The Wrigley Estate is renowned for its extensive lake frontage, with Hillcroft alone boasting an impressive 415-foot water frontage. The estate also includes the famous Wrigley boathouses, which house historic Lake Geneva boats.
Has the Wrigley Mansion Lake Geneva been open to the public?
The current status of public access to the Wrigley Mansion in Lake Geneva may vary. It is recommended to check with local authorities or official sources for the most up-to-date information on public access and visitation policies.