Updated 24 March 2000
The Original log cabin was enlarged then burned down in the early1870's and a large new house was built near the Highway. It cost only $1,500 in those days. 
A house with 6 bedrooms, halls, living room, parlor, dining room large kitchen, wood house, and a wood house chamber above it. There was a long shiny bannister from the upper rooms. We used to keep it shiny by riding it. Underneath was a large closet used for coats and umbrellas. At the top of the house over a large attic was a cupola room 12 X 12 feet with eight windows which looked down on the lake and surrounding country.
From the Obit of Clark M. SHEFFER.
"Clark M. SHEFFER, who for many years was the representative of agricultral interests in Allegan county, owning and conducting the Octagon Fruit Farm, departed this life May 20, 1906, when he was 77 years old. 
In 1850 he made a trip to Michigan and purchaced 160 acres of land situated on section 36 bordering on the shores of Lake Michigan. He later disposed of portions of his farm at various times, the land being used as summer resorts, and the famous resort known as Sleepy Hollow is located on land once owned by Mr. SHEFFER, so the farm now comprises 75 acres, which includes a fine grove covering four acres and borders Lake Michigan. In 1872 he erected an elegant residence, which was built in an Octagon shape, and thus the farm takes its name of the Octagon Fruit Farm.
Three views of the home after it was restored in the 1980's.
Pictures taken in February of 2000 by Dana Breckinridge.
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This Web Page was created on 10/30/1998 with 
Web-O-Rama or E-Mail Kevin Gunn