The Jerome Keane House
Reclaim & Incorporate:
Herbert V. Book Estate
15540 Windmill Pointe was one of the most beautiful homes designed by Louis Kamper for Herbert V. Book in 1921, Detroit hotelier and entrepreneur who worked with Mr. Kamper and his brothers to create many buildings along Washington in Detroit. Including the Book-Cadillac Hotel. This home was purchased by Charles Pontus Helin in 1945, known for manufacturing the “Flatfish” fishing lure which sold more than 30 million by 1958. In 1978, sadly, the house was consumed by fire along with much of its contents. Some items were salvaged and sold. While restoring the master bedroom sitting room back to its Tudor splendor, the Fitzgeralds purchased one of the fireplace mantels from this estate sale and incorporated it into their design.
Reclaim & Incorporate:
The Sycamores
16850 E. Jefferson was the location of the Wesson and Winifred Dodge Grey Seyburn Estate, known as “The Sycamores”. It was located on what is now Sycamore Lane, Grosse Pointe. Built in 1924, it was designed by New York’s Bryant Fleming. Mr. & Mrs. Seyburn resided in their home until their passing in 1961 and 1980, respectively. The estate was demolished in 1981 and much of the contents sold. Mrs. Fitzgerald’s family had very close ties to Mrs. Seyburn and already had several furniture pieces from her estate, including a furniture from their private yacht, The Delphine. As the house contents were sold, the Fitzgeralds purchased wall sconces from The Sycamores which are now throughout their main hall.