The Vanderbilt Club

The Vanderbilt Club was one of many private hunting and fishing clubs that once had a special place in Northern Michigan history. Many of these clubs got their start shortly after the logging era ended and large tracts of cut-over land became readily available. Some of the old clubs still exist, but the memberships have changed. Many of the early owners, members, and their guests are names that most Michiganders would recognize. The names that most Michiganders would not recognize were individuals who managed each club-"the caretakers." These people stayed behind after the members returned to their jobs and comforts in the big cities. Grandpa and Grandma Dudd and Mom (Patty) were caretakers of the Vanderbilt Club in Pigeon River Country outside of Vanderbilt, Michigan, from 1929-1956. Over the years, Mom shared many stories about the club, its members, and their guests. I'm sure when my Grandparents and Mom left the club in 1956, they thought our family would never return. Then, in 2019, the family did! My wife, Nancy, and I were able to purchase the property and return as owners and "caretakers." In a sense, Mom has never really left.This is a caretaker's story-then and now.-Pete Mutch