Mr. Bliss Doing a Bit of Smithing
The estate of Blisswood, overlooking northern Lake Michigan, was deeded to the Bliss Family in lieu of payment for Civil War service in the 1860s. Strolling the lovely grounds or wandering the native woods, it’s easy to see why the Bliss family selected this peaceful location. Its historical significance, abundant natural resources, stunning beauty, and gorgeous views can only be preserved but not replicated.
In the mid-1800s Blisswood was primarily a strawberry and apple farm. Their produce was shipped throughout the Great Lakes region from the nearby port of Cross Village. Remnants of those apple trees and strawberry fields can be found throughout the woods and trails on the property today.
The early 1900s, found the Bliss family transitioning from farming to building. A sawmill was built on the property and construction of stone and log homes began. The stones were selected by the hands of Native Americans from the Blisswood shore of Lake Michigan. Much of the construction was also done by the Native American workers. Their handiwork is seen in the hand-hewn timbers, stone foundations, walls, and fireplaces.
A Restaurant Graced the Property in the Early Days
The exterior of the Blisswood cabins is a distinctive indication of Odawa life here, with their use of Elm bark as siding on the gable ends of the main lodge and cabins. For centuries, the Odawa Indians used Elm bark as a primary covering for their own living structures in this area. Their influence around historic Blisswood abounds and their presence in the immediate area remains to this day.
From the influence and participation of the Native Americans over 100 years ago, to the detail of the restoration of the property in recent years, the Blisswood Lodge and cabins remain historically significant; original “Bliss Cabins” are known as some of America’s finest and most unique log structures.
The main lodge, originally named Krude Kraft Lodge, was the first of Bliss’s celebrated log structures. Built in 1929, it now has the finest of kitchens and sleeping facilities, large gathering spaces, and three stately stone fireplaces. The hinges, unique door handles, and latch string locks were handcrafted and forged on the property and can be found on the kitchen cabinets, interior and exterior doors, and throughout the property. Many original pieces of furniture, also crafted by the Bliss family, are featured throughout.
Chauncey Bliss Preparing the Boat Hoist for Summer
The original frame-constructed homestead, built in the 1800s when the property was being farmed, is now the Blisswood Chapel. The bell, housed in the steeple, originated from the Catholic mission in nearby Cross Village and dates back to the 1700s.
While the buildings are incredible, the richest part of Blisswood may still be the natural beauty of this wondrous area that originally drew the Bliss family to settle here. From the bluff’s vantage point, overlooking beautiful Lake Michigan and numerous islands, you’ll see multiple lighthouses and far-off freighters, grand sunsets and star-lit skies—even an occasional display of the Northern lights—timeless beauty that never grows old.
Over the years Blisswood has transitioned from farming to log and stone cabin construction, from boat and furniture building to resort use with fishing and hunting guide service, and now, to the rustic, refined treasure it is today. From Hall of Fame baseball players during the 1930s and 1940s to the guests we welcome today, Blisswood offers respite from the day-to-day, a place to gather and reconnect, making memories to last a lifetime.