Glen Lake Manor: A New Chapter

Discover the transformation of Glen Lake Manor as we blend historic charm with modern amenities to create a unique destination for both locals and visitors.

architectural drawing overlaid on photo of glen lake manor for renovations

Please join us for this upcoming event...

book sale

Pre-renovation porch sale

Find out the latest news from Dr. Susan Rife on renovation plans for the historic property, and stop to take in the beautiful view of Glen Lake from the Manor porch!

Treasures out of of the 118 year old Manor we’ve got books, Jewelry, Lamps, Furniture, and a broad variety of other items for sale! 

Friday, Aug. 30th &

Saturday, Aug. 31st

9am-3pm

Glen Lake Manor Through Time

Explore the rich history of Glen Lake Manor and the milestones that have shaped its legacy.

historic Cold Spring Inn on little Glen Lake ca 1920

Cold Springs Inn, 1906 -1920 (with a wraparound porch!)

Ockers on Glen Lake - Inn ca 1930

Ocker’s Inn, 1920’s – 1949 (with green roof!)

Glen Lake Manor 1949 – 2001 and
The Manor On Glen Lake Restaurant 2001-2020 (photo of 2005 wedding)

1906-20's

The Grand Opening
Originally Cold Springs Inn, the doors were opened in 1906 as a hotel and restaurant by lumberman John Biddelmen, with his wife as the first cook. They offered lodging and meals for the lumber trade and tourists.

1920's-40's

Initial Structural Changes

Cold Springs Inn was purchased by the Horace Ocker family in the 1920’s. As Ocker’s Inn it underwent its first major renovation removing the wrap-around porch and balcony, and adding more modern amenities to better serve guests. They had an “American Plan” offered to guests that had 3 meals a day plus lodging for tourists as a package during the summer months.

1949-2001

Start of the Wright Era

Sue (Wright) Rife’s parents and grandparents bought Ocker’s Inn and changed the name to Glen Lake Manor. Under June Wright’s leadership, the restaurant at the Manor was known for family style chicken dinners and homemade cherry pies. They offered accomodations in 3 cottages on the property plus in the main building. Several generations of families returned for their summer vacations and became Wright family friends.

2002 - 2020

Cultural Hub
Nancy Wright (Sue’s sister) started renovations on the restaurant that opened in 2005 and changed the name to The Manor on Glen Lake. It became a place to hold luncheons, fundraisers, or have dinner and drinks with friends. It even held small weddings featuring a beautiful view of Little Glen Lake and the dunes. Multiple community events and celebrations occurred during those years until Nancy’s death in 2020 from cancer.

2021-present

New Ownership

Susan (Wright) Rife and Robert Rife acquired the Manor on Glen Lake, restoring the name to Glen Lake Manor to preserve their family legacy. They have hosted small community meetings, fundraisers, ice cream socials, and “porch picnics” for the community. Eventually they plan on fully restoring the entire building and property. So far, the roofs of all 3 cottages and the manor have been replaced, as well as renovating the dining room and kitchen, and are awaiting approval to complete the remaining enhancements needed. 

2024-2026

Reopening
Following the completion of extensive  renovations, Glen Lake Manor will reopen hopefully in 2026. It will offer a unique blend of history and contemporary luxury. They plan to return the main building to a boutique hotel and cafe, offering lodging upstairs and casual fare in the cafe on the first floor, along with a lounge with wine and spirits, and a marketplace/gift shop. The marketplace will feature local artisans crafts and sundries. Once again they are looking to host small private gatherings and community programs.

Follow along

Check the website frequently to follow our progress and offerings. Plus, join us on Facebook for updates!

Support Our Vision

Help us preserve the history and charm of Glen Lake Manor while creating a vibrant community space. Your support is crucial to our mission.

Meet the owners

sue and rob rife

Rob & Sue Rife

Susan Rife and her husband Robert (with Jake their dog), breathing new life into Glen Lake Manor is a family affair and a labor of love.