Property Description

Steeped in history and unmatched character, the Imperial Mill (est. 1848, rebuilt 1881) stands as a monumental 5-bed, 3-bath residential estate perched on 4 pristine acres along Bear Creek. Serving as a unique residentially zoned historic mill, this 3,288 sq ft architectural masterpiece was beautifully transformed into a private residence by President Gerald R. Fords campaign manager and political operative, Jack Stiles--frequently hosting President Ford himself. Showcasing the stunning red wood facade and dramatic rushing waterfall, the property pairs timeless history with vital modern updates: a brand new exterior paint and brand new septic tank to be installed this week. Includes invaluable deeded right of flowage for a millpond and potential for hydroelectric power production! All offers due at 3 PM on Friday, June 5. WELCOME TO THE IMPERIAL MILL: AN UNRIVALED PIECE OF MICHIGAN HISTORYRarely does an architectural artifact of this caliber transition from a 19th-century industrial anchor into a luxurious, living historical monument. Originally established in 1848 at the historic convergence where the trout-rich waters of Bear Creek push toward the Grand River, the Imperial Mill was rebuilt to its grand stature in 1881. Today, it represents a nearly non-existent real estate classification: a fully residential-zoned historic grist mill, preserving the sweeping scale of industrial timber-frame construction while offering the warmth, privacy, and refinement of a world-class country estate.THE GERALD FORD CONNECTION & MID-CENTURY LEGACYThe property took on its legendary modern chapter in the 1950s, when it was purchased by political strategist and West Michigan operative Jack Stiles. As the chief political advisor and campaign manager who helped propel Gerald R. Ford to national prominence, Stiles envisioned the mill as a masterfully designed private sanctuary. Throughout the mid-20th century, the mills expansive rooms and multi-tiered decks regularly welcomed Congressman--and future President--Gerald R. Ford as an intimate guest. Walking through these timbered halls, you are walking in the footsteps of American presidential history.BATHED IN NATURAL LUXURY ON THE WATERThe home boasts a commanding presence with its iconic, freshly painted red wood siding, anchored by an incredible concrete spillway and a private, roaring waterfall that creates an enchanting, therapeutic acoustic backdrop across the entire 4-acre property. With private, direct frontage on Bear Creek--a designated, Michigan trout stream--this property is a fly-fishermans paradise. Crucially, the estate comes with its historic, deeded flowage rights for a millpond fully intact, ensuring protection and control over your pristine riparian corridor.TIMBER-FRAME LUXURY METICULOUSLY APPOINTEDSpanning more than 3,200 square feet of finished living area across three stories, the residence effortlessly handles both grand-scale entertaining and everyday living with 5 spacious bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms.The Living Spaces: The interior features rich hardwood flooring, soaring exposed timber beams, and two massive, hand-laid fieldstone fireplaces that serve as structural and visual anchors for the home.The Owners Suite: A true retreat, the primary bedroom suite features its own dedicated fieldstone fireplace, offering unparalleled warmth and luxury during Michigan winters.Outdoor Living: Multiple oversized, wrap-around decks extend directly from the main living levels, cantilever

Property Features

Local Schools