The Jacobia Estate in Hagar Township was the brainchild of Henry William Jacobs—inventor, entrepreneur, aeronautical enthusiast—who foresaw Southwest Michigan’s potential to become a tourist mecca. The centerpiece of Jacobs’ eponymous resort was a 160-foot water tower with an observation deck. The 180-acre retreat upon which this structure stood was located along the shore of Lake Michigan and also included cottages, barns, a chapel, a dance pavilion, and a 150-foot stairway to the beach known as Jacob’s Ladder.

Although Jacobia only existed for a handful of years in the first quarter of the twentieth century, the legacy of its founder and his vision of Southwest Michigan’s tourism potential still endure. Using research and images, Peter Cook, the Programs Director of North Berrien Historical Museum, will detail the rise and fall of Jacobs and his towering ambition.

No RSVP is required for the free program. For questions, please email peter@northberrienhistory.org or call the Museum at (269) 468-3330.