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From early on, an exclusive club on Geneva Lake

Photo at left: Harvard Club began as a farm for camping along Geneva Lake. More Mystery Place photos in the GALLERY

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The group of summer homes known as Harvard Club is one of the oldest on the south shore of Geneva Lake. The club was formed by a group of businessmen from Harvard, Ill. in 1875 on 14 acres of Edward Ayer’s 1,200-acre farm estate. Ayer’s father, Elbridge, founded the village of Harvard.

The club originally started out as a campsite for several families from Harvard, Ill., as well as a few from Chicago.

The property that Ayer gave to the club included 250 feet of lake frontage that extended back from the water 600 feet, stretching from the shore to the road.

The land was divided into 50 lots. Each was 25 feet square, which was just big enough for a tent. After a few years, some of the lots were combined and residents began building cottages.

The current 24 houses were built before 1896. Club members own their own homes, but the property is owned collectively by the club.

Early on, there was a hotel that also served as the clubhouse. After the hotel burned, it was not replaced, and the kitchens became part of individual homes.

According to an article in the April 7, 1975 Lake Geneva Regional News, a book of rules was drawn up in the 1920s. It included:

1. No parakeets or quadrupeds allowed.

2. No painting or construction is permitted between June 15 and Sept. 15.

3. Screens or shrubbery must not obstruct the view of the lake

4. Drying of laundry and bathing suits must be concealed from public.

5. Radios are not to be played on porches.

6. A quiet time between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. must be observed for napping.

7. Children are requested to behave like ladies and gentlemen.

8. Fraternizing with alcoholic beverages is frowned upon.

9. Membership in Harvard Club is by application and investigation, and is limited to 25 members.

A fire swept through Harvard Club in 1963 destroying seven homes. Because of a change in zoning laws, only two were replaced.

The club was included in the Geneva Lake Intensive Survey and Architectural-Historical Report done in August 1985.