Over the course of the next l3 years, we would come up from our home in Nashville to work on the place during the summers. It became affectionately known as "Murk's summer work camp". The attic and former laundry were converted into two cozy apartments with decks. The six small bedrooms upstairs were made into a comfortable condo. The former downstairs restaurant has been made into another cozy apartment and two conference rooms. The 50-year-old main kitchen was replaced with hickory Merrillat cupboards. Twenty ton jacks were used to raise the conference area, which had sunk with water seepage. Footings had to be built to support the almost non-existent foundation. Aluminum siding was taken off the one-hundred-year-old logs and they were restored. Bats and guano had to be removed from the "battic". It has been a joy to restore this historic building for the Lord's service.

Our original idea was to have a hideaway where all of our families could come with the grandchildren and "rest-a-while." We envisioned a place for physical and spiritual renewal and building memories. The four couples and 15 grandchildren were not going to use up all the summertime, however, so we've decided to open up the lodge for pastors, missionaries, and Christian workers who need a place for a short time.

There are four condo-apartments, each with a different theme: The Sports Room, The Coca-Cola Room, The Northwoods Room, and The Lodge Room with the adjoining mini-conference rooms. There is also a separate 3-bedroom, 3-season cabin called The Sunshine Cottage.

We also have opened up Ferndale to be used by Church staffs or groups and Bible studies for weekend retreats. Folks love being on the quiet lake away from the daily routine. We have sincerely dedicated Ferndale to God for His glory and service.

WELCOME!