MSU Extension Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities

"Welcome to Saravilla, my name is Kelly O'Shea. My wife, Rochelle, and I, we own the property. The home was built in 1894 by a lumber baron named Ammi Wright. He built this home for his daughter Sarah and her husband James Lancashire to come spend time with them when they were visiting the town. 

As you see the home today, you'll see that it's about 95% of the way the family left it. They moved out in 1917. Sarah and James were socialites. The only thing they believed in was who to be seen with and how fast they could spend her father's money. So, when they came to Alma, they thought it was going to be kind of the same lifestyle, but turned out to be a little different. 

Her father was the money. She was one of five children; she was the only one who survived to full adulthood. His other four children passed away before the age of 24. So you can just imagine how overindulged Sarah was. When her and her father discussed the home, it was supposed to be a modest home, in her father's eyes. So, it turned out to not be so modest. We are an 11,000 square foot and we are considered the summer cottage.

In 1902, Sarah had asked her father about adding on an event space so she could properly entertain her friends. So they added on a 1,200 square foot ballroom/drawing room so she could properly entertain. We hold different events in this space just like Sarah would've. We hold weddings, receptions, bridal showers, baby showers, tea parties, corporate events, and holiday gatherings. 

We're looking forward to seeing you this fall as we host the reception for the CEC Conference on the South Lawn. Feel free to tour our home, see guest rooms, and event spaces."