Black Point Estate & Gardens: Escape for a taste of Wisconsin’s brewing history

Lake Geneva, Wis. – The Wisconsin Historical Society is excited to announce that Black Point Estate & Gardens will open for the season on Saturday, May 29, 2021. In addition to regular tours, a variety of special experiences will be offered this season.

“We are thrilled to once again open our doors to visitors at the estate,” said Dave Desimone, director of Black Point Estate & Gardens, one of the Wisconsin Historical Society’s 12 historic sites and museums. “This year, our special experiences include past favorites as well as new offerings. Whether you are a regular visitor to the estate or have never toured the property, this year’s programming provides something for everyone.”

Local historian Chris Brookes will reprise his popular event, “An Evening with Agatha Christie,” with dates in June and October. The experience delves into the author’s famous works through thoughtful conversation while attendees sip on complimentary wine. “Beer Barons of Lake Geneva,” a deep dive into the histories of the moguls who once vacationed along the shores of Geneva Lake, will also return for another season with dates in June, July, and August.

Walking tour enthusiasts can choose from an assortment of options throughout the season, and those who prefer to explore history over local fare and a cold beverage will love “Beer and Brats with Conrad Seipp.” This immersive experience brings the Victorian era to life and gives attendees the opportunity to see Black Point Estate & Gardens through the eyes of its original owner with the guidance of a historic brewing expert. The picnic dinner will be served alongside Seipp’s Extra Pale Pre-Prohibition Pilsner.

As always, visitors must access the estate via boat ferry operated by Lake Geneva Cruise Line. Tours offer sweeping views of the luxury estate’s pristine gardens and lavish rooms furnished as they were when the original owner used the property as a summer getaway for his family. Black Point is among the oldest mansions to dot the shoreline of Geneva Lake, built in 1888 and today one of the finest examples of Queen Anne style architecture.

The Wisconsin Historical Society is committed to prioritizing the health and safety of our guests, members, and staff. Visit us online at wisconsinhistory.org/sites for more information about our 2021 health and safety protocols. For more information about Black Point Estate & Gardens and upcoming experiences, visit blackpointestate.org.

About Black Point Estate and Gardens

Black Point Estate and Gardens is one of twelve historic sites administered by the Wisconsin Historical Society. The estate is a 20 room Queen-Anne style “cottage” built by Chicago beer baron Conrad Seipp with construction completed in 1888. Visitors can reach the site by boat, just as family and friends did in a bygone era. For more information and a list of upcoming events, visit blackpointestate.org.

About Wisconsin Historical Society

The Wisconsin Historical Society, founded in 1846, ranks as one of the largest, most active and most diversified state historical societies in the nation. As both a state agency and a private membership organization, its mission is to help people connect to the past by collecting, preserving and sharing stories. The Wisconsin Historical Society serves millions of people every year through a wide range of sites, programs and services. For more information, visit wisconsinhistory.org.