Oftentimes, necessity is the mother of invention.

In a couple of weeks I will have numerous family members arrive on my doorstep as the in-between stop before we head to Canada to visit our relatives there.

I have no problem giving up my bed and being creative as to who gets which room and resting place to land; however, even with three beds, a daybed and a couch I just can’t pull a miracle without investing in an air mattress or motorhome.

My oldest sister asked me, “Well what is the best place to stay in town?” Ruh Roh, I thought… THERE ISN’T ANY that I’m aware of. We have some lovely vacation rentals (most booked this time of year), but nothing for an evening stay over. The closest hotel is in Dowagiac, our small-town neighbor.

This is a good thing, but when you have relatives visiting from far away you prefer to have them as near to you as possible when they arrive on your doorstep, rather than have to travel a town away to sleep for the night.

It was in that moment that an idea from my friend Jean Westwood, a realtor for Coldwell Banker in Edwardsburg, who sells lovely things in my shoppe, re-materialized as pure brilliance. We had been talking at the Cassopolis Farmers’ Market about the possibilities for the Vintage Courthouse that rises like a beautiful castle at the top of Broadway Street. She had said, “Well, that would make a really lovely hotel.” Lightbulb moment, as the wheels in my head began to whirl. “Yes,” I said, “It would.”

We excitedly talked of how there are three floors, an elevator, the history and ability to incorporate Cass County into it. There could be a lovely chapel area for weddings, a small gallery or history gift shop, several local restaurants and caterers could provide continental breakfasts.

Directly across the street is Turtle Lodge Event Venue, perfect for receptions and parties. While we were dreaming, I thought, well, perhaps even an indoor pool, sauna and exercise area could be put in the annex side. The ideas for county, court, history and naming rooms and making it a destination spot to stay as well as a stop on a history tour, including the Underground Railroad or wine trails. The possibilities are endless.

I hope the commissioners and members of the committee looking at ideas truly consider this one. It would generate money and fill a need.

For those wondering if there would be enough people wanting to stay in Cassopolis; I say absolutely.

The vacation rentals on Stone Lake stay fully booked through summer. Then there are Notre Dame games (we are a lovely country drive away), history buffs, and like me, those with friends and relatives who need accommodation

Vernon Lee  once said, “There is too little courtship in the world.” .

And, there are too little available rooms in Cassopolis.

 

CeeCee Wilson is the organizer of Cass Can, Inc. and owner of Last Tagine in Paris, LLC. Find them on Facebook.