W.H.L. McCourtie Estate, Historic estate and public park in Somerset Township, Michigan.
The W.H.L. McCourtie Estate is a former private residence on 42 acres in Somerset Township that now operates as a public park. The property features seventeen concrete bridges with textured details imitating wood, plus cement trees, reflecting pools, and large decorative birdhouses throughout the grounds.
William Herbert Lee McCourtie built his wealth in cement and oil industries before beginning to reshape his family property in the 1920s. The transformation took shape through the early 1930s with skilled laborers executing his vision for the grounds.
Mexican artisans brought their traditional concrete sculpting technique to this property, creating bridges that reflect their heritage. This craft tradition remains visible in the detailed work that shapes the landscape today.
The park welcomes visitors throughout the year to explore the architecture and landscaping at their own pace. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since pathways vary in surface and include grassy and gravel sections.
The collection of seventeen concrete bridges using el trabejo rustico technique may be the largest in the country. This specific Mexican construction craft appears nowhere else in such concentration in the United States.
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