East Lake Shore Road

Over the years, Kelleys Island has had many fine hostelries, but none more famous than the Himmelein House. The first section was built about 1859 by Johann (John) Himmelein as a private residence. However, by 1870, census records show that it was being used as a hotel.

By 1890, after enlarging the original structure by the addition of two wings and a third-storey, the Himmelein House reached the size it has today. For nearly three decades following the renovation and enlargement, it served as a center for rest and entertainment of summer guests, among who were Grover Cleveland and William Howard Taft. In addition, Mr. Himmelein and, later, his son-in-law, Gus Sun, were both nationally known theatrical booking agents who not only entertained many of their clients here, but, also, sponsored professional performances on the Island. Since 1920 the Himmelein family has used the house as a private residence. It is not open to the public.

From Kelleys Island, A Tour Guide