McCabe-Marlowe House, Grand Rapids

The McCabe-Marlowe House is a historic treasure built in 1865 by James Gallup, a prominent insurance salesman and drugstore operator. Gallup was deeply involved in the community, serving as U.S. Postmaster from 1878 to 1882 and playing a key role in organizing and pastoring several local churches. Over the years, the house was owned by an array of influential figures, including bankers, lawyers, doctors, and philanthropists, each adding to its storied legacy.

In 1945, the house found a unique purpose when McCabe and Marlowe, two junior college faculty members, acquired it and used it as a venue for hosting teas for biology and chemistry students who aspired to careers in medicine. After decades of distinguished use, the home underwent a meticulous 15-month restoration project, culminating in its designation as a state historic landmark in 1981.

Today, the house retains its historic charm with features like the original oak flooring, an intricately curved cherry staircase inlaid with ivory scrimshaw, and double front doors adorned with etched and frosted glass. An attached carriage house, complete with original wooden barn doors, adds to its historic allure.

Visitors to the McCabe-Marlowe House are greeted by a stunning chandelier that once graced the downtown Pantlind Hotel, alongside impeccably preserved molded plaster medallions in the front parlors. Over the years, this elegant space has served as a venue for conferences, wedding receptions, baby showers, and retreats.