Learn the local history of the Dole Mansion, Country Club, Franciscan Order, First Congregational Church, and the Dole.
Step back to a simpler time to explore the craftsmanship and unexpected brilliance of a Civil War-era architectural masterpiece – the historic Dole Mansion.
Chicago Board of Trade Committee
Shipped blocks of ice all over the Midwest.
Sold Mansion & Ice Company for $1.00 to son-in-law A.C. Stowell.
She was a widow of Al Ringling, oldest brother of the famous circus family.
Original Country Club of Crystal Lake
Converted into St. Mary Minor School for Boys (Prep Seminary)
Annex – School & Bedrooms for the Boys
Mansion – Chapel & Home to the Franciscans
Franciscans Order Coat of Arm – Stained glass window
“Pax et Bonum”– Peace & The Good
“Via, Veritas, Vita”– The Way, The Truth, The Life
The annex portion of the structure was renovated for use by thousands of hour of volunteer work. The Church named the facility “Lakeside Center.”
In 2002, a major fundraising effort was underway, called the “Lakeside Legacy Project,” spearheaded by the Crystal Lake Jaycees, neighbors, and several community leaders. In an unprecedented groundswell, the community generously gave over one million dollars in just 42 days to enable the hastily formed Lakeside Legacy Foundation to meet a deadline, and purchase the property, and save it for the community.
Officially opened on July 4, 2005, it is owned and operated by the non-profit Lakeside Legacy Foundation, formed for the purpose of preservation, protection, and enhancement of the property. Reawakening took over two years, and several hundred thousand dollars in donations to complete.
The Lakeside Legacy Foundation, a not-for-profit 501(c) 3 organization.
We are dedicated to the restoration of the Dole Mansion, you can step back to a simpler time to explore the craftsmanship and unexpected brilliance of a Civil War-era architectural masterpiece – the historic Dole Mansion. Click Here for More Information.
Our 12-acre park is an inspirational location to stimulate the senses. Learn to paint, take a culinary class, play an instrument, draw, hold a meeting or host an event! There is a lot to experience at The Dole!
Lakeside Legacy Foundation dedicated this beautiful venue on September 13, 2012, and was made possible by the generosity of a special group of individuals from Beach Cite, Inc. Learn More
Music Under The TreesJoin us for an evening of live music, food, and drinks to support The Dole |
Lakeside FestivalCome experience live music, food, thrilling rides, midway games, historic tours, a great selection of beer and wines, and fun for the whole family. |
GalaThe Dole is excited about our Gala in 2021. A perfect night for the community to gather and support a great cause for the community. |
WinterfestCommunity Holiday Event |
Art EventsCommunity Art shows and 4th Fridays support local & regional artists with a genuine commitment to excellence and the idea that art events can also be fresh + fun.
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MusicEndless entertainment possibilities for local and regional musicians, actors, directors, authors, ensemble groups, and more. |
Keeping & Restoring Local HistorySchedule a private tour of the historic Dole Mansion! |
College and Career PathLearn about careers that might be right for you, and narrow in on the opportunities that you want to pursue. |
CulinaryLearn from professional chefs! Classes include healthy snacks, light meals, and pastry decorating. Hands-on learning! |