Built in 1895, this stunning and enchanted castle owes its remarkability to its resident, Frank Henderson.

As the owner and president of the Henderson-Ames Company, which produced uniform regalia for secret societies, fraternal groups, and the military, Mr. Henderson was one of Kalamazoo’s most prosperous businesspeople at the time. 

The Henderson Castle’s Mission and Changing Ownership

Before the company’s significant success, Mary, Mr. Henderson’s wife, had inherited undeveloped land on the western edge of Kalamazoo.

Mr. Henderson aspired to transform this land into an exclusive suburb.

The building features a classic industrial design characterized by high ceilings, abundant windows, and exposed brick walls.

Since Mrs. Henderson’s passing, the Henderson Castle has had nine different owners, including the most recent, Master French Chef Francois Moyet, who purchased the property in 2011.

Initially bought in 1957 with plans to establish the Kalamazoo Art Center, the castle instead became part of Kalamazoo College, a prestigious liberal arts institution, after the Institute of Arts decided to remain in downtown Kalamazoo.

Exterior Features of the Henderson Castle

The endurance of Henderson Castle’s exterior, which has spanned over a century, is attributed to its novel strong steel frame at the time of construction.

Complementing this structural integrity, the exterior boasts red brick, large arched windows on the upper stories, and ornamental stone accents.

A Hub of Entertainment and Luxury Amenities

The castle’s long and illustrious history has made it famous beyond Michigan, attracting film crews for three movies, including “In the Woods.”

It has also made appearances on programs like House Hunters and the Discovery Channel.

Additionally, the castle now boasts a day spa, an organic garden, a vineyard, and the popular local restaurant Chop House.

It also offers ten guest rooms, one of which is situated in the Guest Cottage.

The elegantly designed dining area resembles the period of Kings and Queens and can accommodate several guests at a time.

This regal ambiance is further amplified by elements such as the carpet, chairs, styling, ceiling design, and wall paintings.

Francois’ ownership allows the community to visit the Castle.

The restaurant is open for dinner daily, and castle tours and the Queen’s Tea Service are available throughout the week.

With its romantic ambiance, fine dining, and classic charm, The Henderson Castle also emerges as a premier choice for wedding celebrations.

Furthermore, the Castle enriches Kalamazoo’s cultural scene, welcoming guests to a variety of public events throughout its century-long history.

Elegant Rooms of the Henderson Castle

The rooms in Henderson Castle boast modern amenities, yet their true charm lies in the ancient woodcraft, classic styling, wall paintings, and overall authenticity that adorn each space.

One of the castle’s most outstanding characteristics is its enormous atrium, which spans the whole height of the structure and floods the interior rooms with natural light. 

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