OUR HISTORY
More than a venue, Greencrest is a story — one that began with resilience and continues through generations of thoughtful stewardship.
Tucked within an enchanting woodland just outside of Battle Creek, Michigan, Greencrest Manor has always been a place set apart. From the moment you pass through the wrought-iron gates and follow the tree-lined drive, you are welcomed into a home shaped by intention, care, and a deep sense of calling.
1935
1962
MRS. BURT & THE BIRTH OF A VISION
Greencrest Manor was built more than eighty-five years ago during the Great Depression by Mrs. Burt, following the loss of her husband.
Rather than allowing grief to quiet her vision, she chose to bring it fully to life. Inspired by the French countryside, Mrs. Burt poured herself into every detail of the home and grounds. The manor was designed in the French Normandy style, with craftsmanship and care evident in every corner.
The gardens were especially dear to her heart. At one time, sixteen gardeners tended the grounds, shaping formal gardens, orchards, and pathways with extraordinary intention. For Mrs. Burt, Greencrest was not simply a residence — it was a living expression of devotion, beauty, and perseverance.
FROM PRIVATE ESTATE TO MONASTERY
Following Mrs. Burt’s passing, the Greencrest estate was sold in 1962 to the Roman Catholic Church and converted into a monastery.
For a time, the home served as a place of reflection and spiritual life, welcoming monks who lived and worked on the property.
After the monastery was eventually vacated, Greencrest entered a difficult chapter. Without active stewardship, the estate fell into vandalism and disrepair — a period marked by neglect, yet one that did not diminish the soul of the home itself.
1987
RESTORATION & RENEWAL
Tom and Kathy VanDaff purchased the long-abandoned Greencrest Manor, recognizing its beauty even in a state of significant neglect.
The manor had weathered years without care, its grandeur obscured by time and damage. Over the next two years, they undertook an extensive renovation, carefully restoring the property before reopening it in 1989 as a French Victorian bed and breakfast. Their work marked a pivotal return to life for Greencrest, renewing its role as a place of welcome and hospitality.
2014
A BRIDGE BETWEEN ERAS
Greencrest Manor was purchased by Janet Marcus, a Battle Creek native with a deep appreciation for historic estates.
Janet made the manor her home for several years, continuing its care with a thoughtful and respectful approach to preservation.
Her stewardship served as a meaningful bridge between Greencrest’s bed-and-breakfast era and the future that lay ahead. In 2019, Janet passed the home on to new ownership, ensuring Greencrest was once again entrusted to capable hands.
2014
THE NEXT CHAPTER
On October 22, 2019, Jenn purchased Greencrest Manor, stepping into the role of steward with a deep sense of responsibility to its history and future.
From the beginning, her vision has centered on honoring what has always made Greencrest special while thoughtfully restoring the estate for generations to come.
Through careful renovation and ongoing preservation, Jenn continues the long tradition of protecting the heart, beauty, and spirit of Greencrest Manor.
THE GARDENS AS LIVING LEGACY
The gardens of Greencrest remain a living connection to its earliest days. Every path, planting, and restoration is approached with deep respect for what came before.
While the gardens continue to evolve, each decision is guided by the intention to honor their original design — preserving the beauty, balance, and care that have defined Greencrest since its beginning.
