"THIS
BOULDER is dedicated to Earl A. Young, the developer of
Boulder Park by the Boulder Park Association." Most of the
legacy Young left the city of Charlevoix doesn't bear his
name, but his style is unmistakable.
Try to
find his MASTERPIECE'S on the above map..
Earl A.Young lived most of his life in Charlevoix. He graduated
from Charlevoix High School in 1908 and studied architecture at the
University of Michigan for one year. He married Irene Harsha,
daughter of Horace Harsha, in 1915, and worked in real estate for
more than 60 years. Earl Young built a number of homes in the
Charlevoix area, and each reflects his unusual style. The Ludington
Daily News in October 13, 1971 issue said it this way: “Sometimes
the rooflines sweep so close to the ground that side windows are
cut into them. The homes feature large fireplaces, generous use of
stonework, and creative landscaping which helps the houses blend
and snuggle into the hillsides.” Young told the newspaper’s writer,
“I always build the roof first, and then shove the house under it.”
Following the manner of Frank Lloyd Wright, who argued that houses
should blend organically into their surroundings, Young designed
each home to fit its site. His signature style included liberal use
of stone, including stone fireplaces, curved cedar shake roofs, and
unusual chimneys that look like they come from fairy tales. Unlike
Wright, it has been argued, Young’s homes have a warmth and whimsy
that makes them a pleasure to live in, in spite of their obvious
size limitations. And with one exception, the only place you can
find a Young home is in Charlevoix. Be sure to
see "user's web page" just below cache size @ top of cache
page!
ENJOY!
