30 | APRIL 20 • 2023 

O

h, our beloved Charlevoix and 
its special Earl Young mushroom 
houses …
Earl Young, who built the playful houses 
of stone in and around Charlevoix add-
ing to its natural charm, is also known 
for his biggest project, the Weathervane 
Terrace Hotel Inn and Suites and adjacent 
Weathervane Restaurant in the heart of 
Charlevoix.
While those who go to Charlevoix know 
the Weathervane Terrace Hotel, unknown 
by most is that the hotel has housed a secret 
residence that was designed by Earl Young 

in his classic style. Boasting 2 bedrooms, 1 
and ½ baths, a fireplace and 1,200 square 
feet, the residence known as the “Tower 
Suite” is situated directly above the hotel 
lobby. 
From the outside, it is recognized as that 
circular space with the tent-like roof and 
iconic yellow awnings. 
However, until now, few had access 
to this unique space and, while widely 
recognizable from the outside, its identity 
remained a mystery. 
For the past 45 years, this space has been 
owned as a private residence. That has all 

changed with its sale to new owners who 
are making it available to the public as part 
of the Weathervane Hotel Inn and Suites 
rental program.
“We’re excited to have acquired this piece 
of Charlevoix history and to make it avail-
able to the public to be enjoyed by many,
” 
says new owner Alan Havis.
Havis grew up in the Jewish commu-
nity of Metro Detroit. And like so many 
Jewish families, his family summered 
in Charlevoix ever since he was a child. 
Charlevoix, and its famed mushroom hous-
es, has given Havis a lifelong fascination 

A Piece of 
Charlevoix 
History

TRAVEL

New Earl Young find in northern 
Michigan is available for rent.

JN STAFF

LEFT: The 
Weathervane Tower 
Suite, view from the 
Pine River
BELOW: The Tower 
Suite Living Room

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALAN HAVIS