The Estate is made up of three properties: Castle Hill, a National Historic Landmark that is the home of The Great House, a spectacular venue for weddings and corporate events, guided tours, and programs. Crane Beach, a popular public beach and summer destination; and the Crane Wildlife Refuge, a natural treasure boasting many rare plant and animal species.
Chicago industrialist Richard T. Crane, Jr. first purchased the 2,100 acres that would become The Crane Estate in 1910. Crane was captivated by the beautiful landscape, and over time worked with eight leading architects and landscape architects to shape his summer retreat. In 1928, he crowned the estate with a grand 59-room, Stuart-style mansion, designed by the world-renowned architect David Adler. Nearly 100 years later, the Crane Estate plays a vital role in the local community and beyond as a place for year-round recreation, historic house tours, weddings, corporate and private parties, an annual art show, summer concerts, lectures, movie filming, a popular summer camp and public volunteer opportunities.