Havencrest Castle
The Greenleafs
Just beyond the Castle gates, atop the hill's crest, lies a simple yet elegant white clapboard house known as "Hillside." This was the inaugural homestead erected on Greenleaf Hill and presently serves as our Visitors Center. Constructed in 1872 by Simon Greenleaf and his wife Frances Jane, "Hillside" holds a significant place in our history. Simon established the Savanna Times, a weekly newspaper, in 1875. The family's involvement in media extended in 1885 when Simon and his son, Francis, founded the Savanna Journal. By year's end, Francis S. Greenleaf assumed full ownership and editorial responsibilities, a tradition that persists today as the Savanna Times Journal.
The Greenleafs possessed vast land holdings encompassing the entire hill and a substantial expanse down below. Simon, a devout Episcopalian, generously donated a portion of these lands to St. Paul's Episcopal Church, where he played a pivotal role as a founding member. His legacy endures through a stained glass window dedicated to his memory within the church's structure.
In 1886, Margaret Kenney wed Simon's son, Francis S. Greenleaf, and together they resided in "Hillside," harboring dreams of constructing their own home. They selected a prime parcel atop the hill's crest, lot number one, as the site for their future Queen Anne mansion.
The late 19th century saw a flourishing period in the Midwestern town, buoyed by the intersection of railroad and Mississippi River commerce. Affluent locals vied to erect "commodious and substantial" residences. Between 1899 and 1901, "Hillcrest" (later known as "Havencrest") emerged as one of four extravagant homes commissioned as part of a wager among prominent businessmen to determine the most opulent dwelling in Savanna. Each residence, designed in the Queen Anne style by the town's sole architect, Lester Bowen, showcased opulent features. "Hillcrest," fashioned from local brick and limestone, boasted rare indoor plumbing, with two water closets, and modern amenities like a marble sink with hot and cold running water in Margaret's bedroom. Luxurious Birdseye Maple and quarter-sawn oak adorned the public rooms, while the dining room flaunted a Tiffany chandelier and intricate lighting within the coffered ceiling.
Following Mr. Greenleaf's passing in 1944, Margaret joined him in 1945. With their children dispersed across the country, the house and furnishings were sold, though notable features like fireplaces, stained glass windows, and ornate brass hardware endured, awaiting a new chapter in the home's history.
The St. Georges
In 1976, after seven subsequent owners, Mr. and Mrs. Alan St. George acquired the Greenleaf estate, embarking on a lifelong mission to expand and embellish the residence in the style of the American aristocracy. The newlyweds reimagined the former Greenleaf abode, renaming it "Havencrest Castle," embodying their shared ethos: "Reality is for those who lack Imagination."
Alan and Adrianne St. George's enduring love, fostered since adolescence, found expression in a fervent dedication to creative expression and a lifestyle that blurred the boundaries between fantasy and reality. Over three decades, they expanded the original 22 rooms into 63, meticulously planning and executing every detail without external architectural or design assistance. "Havencrest" became a canvas for their artistic endeavors, adorned with original artworks and sculptures, with Alan's creations inspired by Adrianne. The completed rooms hosted extravagant galas, costume balls, and charitable events. Adrianne, a founding director of the Humane Society of Carroll County, utilized the castle's resources to benefit the organization, while also providing a home to six beloved dogs. Her passing in 2006 left a void, yet Alan continued their legacy, channeling grief into creativity, culminating in the completion of numerous sculptures.
Facemakers, Inc.
At 19, after studying at The Chicago Academy of Fine Arts, Alan St. George founded Facemakers, Inc., an international mascot company, in 1972. From 1976 to 1989, the company operated exclusively from "Havencrest," before expanding production and shipping operations nearby. Facemakers, Inc. garnered renown for designing mascots for Disney, The White House, Keebler Elf, Tony the Tiger, Smokey Bear, and numerous educational institutions, firmly establishing "Havencrest Castle" as both the company's headquarters and Alan's personal workspace.
The Castle Today
In October 2018, with assistance from a third generation of family staff, Alan St. George opened "Havencrest Castle" to visitors. Over eight days, 2,773 guests embarked on self-guided tours, igniting Alan's resolve to make his home accessible to visitors in October and May annually.
Havencrest Castle Public Tours:
104 N 5th
Savanna, IL 61074
Standard Tours
Public tours
on May and October weekends
ALL fees include BOTH the first and 2nd floors.
The self-guided tour includes an audio program that you can dial up on your personal cell phone. (iPhone and Android)
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Hours:
10 AM to 5 PM
(Last tour admitted at 4:00 PM)
Months:
May and October weekends-only
No appointment necessary. Our parking lot is at the bottom of the hill. Walk up or catch a fun ride in one of our "Castle Cars" to our Visitors Center (white house outside the gates).
FULL Tour Admission (27 rooms on 2 floors): $20-$25.
General admission is $25
All military, students, children under 18 is $20
ALL fees includes BOTH the first and 2nd floors.
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FREE crowns for all children!
Children (under 3) are FREE
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The castle is NOT handicap-accessible,
nor for persons with limited mobility. Stairs and inclines are involved.
Pressed for time? This is a self-guided tour and is designed to be taken at your own pace.
