Spiritualism in the Victorian Era

Experience the spine-tingling excitement of spiritualism at Black Point Estate & Gardens.

Interest in spiritualism surged in America during the mid to late 1800s, as people sought ways to connect with deceased friends and loved ones in the "Great Beyond." What better place to explore this paranormal proclivity than in the elegant dining room of a Queen Anne style mansion built in 1888 by Chicago beer tycoon Conrad Seipp? 

Sip on a delectable cordial and hear tales of the Fox sisters, credited with the creation of the spiritualist movement in America, and learn about Wisconsin’s connection to the movement, including Whitewater’s Morris Pratt Institute, the country’s first spiritualist school. More than an occult parlor game, spiritualism was a social and religious movement that claimed to channel the voices of the dead, link the present with the past, and conjure new worldly and otherworldly futures. This event provides attendees the chance to enjoy the estate after dark.

About the Location

Black Point Estate, built in 1888 as a retreat for Chicago Beer Baron Conrad Seipp, has persisted through the centuries as a historic place to relax, refresh, and explore the banks of Geneva Lake and beyond. Much like the Victorian VIPs who originally established the estate, visitors can enjoy the cool lake breezes on the mansion's veranda, sip Seipp beer, and listen to the soothing melodies of the authentic 1911 Chickering piano that rests just inside. As one of the oldest homes in Lake Geneva and a premier example of period architecture and furniture in the Midwest, Black Point Estate offers a glimpse into the rich and historic past of the Gilded Age. 

Black Point Estate & Gardens 
W4270 Southland Road 
Lake Geneva, WI 53147 

Know Before You Go & Accessibility

• Parking for this event will be off-site at Reek School, W4094 South Lake Shore Drive, Lake Geneva, WI 53147.
• One of our team members will be in the school parking lot and will check everyone in.
• You will be notified a week before the event with any additional parking information. 
• This event does not include a lake cruise.
• No outside food or beverage is allowed.
• Bottled water and other non-alcoholic drinks are available for purchase. 
• There is no food service. 
• This event will be held rain or shine. 

Guests with additional mobility needs are encouraged to contact the site directly for direct access to the estate at blackpointestate@wisconsinhistory.org or 262-248-1888. 

Contact
For more information, please contact the box office at 608-264-4848 or boxoffice@wisconsinhistory.org.